SKRUFF. Water-rate! Gas! Are you aware, young woman, that you’re addressing a gentleman?
SALLY. You don’t mean it? Well, that’s about the last thing I should have thought of! It only shows one mustn’t always judge by appearances.
SKRUFF (with importance). I happen to be a friend of your master’s.
SALLY. Well, I am surprised—’cause master’s so very particular—then how came you to ring the servants’ bell?
SKRUFF (aside). I never shall get out of that habit—been used to it so long, I suppose. (Aloud.) Is Mr. Gritty down?
SALLY. Can’t say, I’m sure, sir—but I know he ain’t up.
SKRUFF. Oh! at what time does he usually get up?
SALLY. Well, sir, that depends; but, as a rule, I’ve observed he usually gets up about his usual time.
SKRUFF. Does he indeed? (Aside.) There’s a flippancy about this young woman I don’t like. (Aloud.) Perhaps the young ladies, Mr. Gritty’s nieces, are down?
SALLY. Can’t say positively, sir—but I know they ain’t up.