GENTLEMAN (aside). Her full face is even better than her profile! (Aloud, and in a sentimental tone.) Ah, madam! would it were in my power to prolong this pleasant journey—this delightful tête-à-tête!
LADY (with dignity). Sir!
GENTLEMAN (aside). That’s no go! (Aloud.) I mean, madam, that one seems to travel too fast nowadays! (LADY expresses surprise.) In fact, we’re all too fast!
LADY (severely). Sir!
GENTLEMAN (aside). That’s no go! (Aloud.) We’ve only to contrast the present with the time when the wife of one of our ancient kings traversed the whole of England by easy stages of five miles a day!
LADY. Of whom do you speak?
GENTLEMAN. Of—of— (Aside.) Hang me if I know! (Aloud.) Of Tabitha—I mean Elgitha, the wife of—Edmund—Sobersides—I should say Ironsides! But without going quite so far back, madam, I confess I often regret the days of those heavy old stage-coaches called “High-flyers,” “Eclipses,” and “Rockets.”
LADY (smiling). Because they went so slowly?
GENTLEMAN. Precisely. Still, it had its advantages—it gave one an opportunity to make the acquaintance of one’s travelling companions—to establish a friendly feeling—perhaps one of a more tender nature! (with a tender look at the LADY).
LADY (with a stare of astonishment). Sir!