(He brings in a small dish of meat, the pan of bread, and afterwards an enormous soup tureen heaped up with boiled rice. The tureen may be nearly filled up with any other substance, and the rice placed on top, causing an observer to think it is entirely filled with rice.)
Mr. S. (goes to the door, L., and calls). Willie! Willie! dinner is ready.
W. (entering). I’m as hungry as a bear.
Mr. S. Well, we’ve got plenty to eat. (Helps him to meat and rice.)
W. Isn’t there any potatoes?
Mr. S. No, but here’s some bread. (Tries to cut the bread, but does not succeed. At that moment the door opens, and Mrs. Smith walks in, L. She glances at the table, and bursts into a laugh.)
Mrs. S. What have you got for dinner, Mr. Smith? I think you must be fond of rice!
Mr. S. (rising). Don’t say a word, my dear, don’t say a word! I’ve had trials enough this morning to drive a man crazy. Say anything you please about the drudgery of housework, and I will agree with you. I’ve had an experience this forenoon which I shall not forget in a lifetime!
Mrs. S. If it causes you to be more considerate in future, I shall not regret having left you. I think you must have done something, judging from the appearance of the room. (Looks around.)
Mr. S. And I suppose you think the prospect is, that there is still something left to do. But as you have got home so early, I think I’ll go down to the office a while. I have a slight headache, and think a change of scene would benefit me.