Mrs. J. [laughing]. Quite true, Mrs. Crabstick. If we had been meant to go on bicycles we should be born with wheels instead of legs.
Mrs. B. Ah, it's a weary world.
Mrs. S. Oh dear me, Mrs. Crabstick, don't be so gloomy. I've got another little maid to take Sukey's place this afternoon. You'll get your tea all the same. The kettle's boiling now. Polly, is everything ready?
Polly. Yes, ma'am.
[She brings in the teapot, the guests sit round the table, Mrs. S. at the head of it. Kettle on fire.
Mrs. S. Now, I'll help you first, Mrs. Crabstick. I know you depend so much on your tea.
[Pours out: water only comes out of the pot.
Mrs. S. Oh!
Mrs. J. There's only water in the teapot.
Mrs. B. There's no tea in it.