"But what have you got to do?"
"What have I got to do? The day flies ... and I never have time to do what I've got to do."
"But what have you got to do, Dorine?"
"My dear Gerrit, I won't bore you with a list of my doings. Take it from me that my life is sometimes too busy and that I never know a second's rest...."
He sat down and looked at her lunch.
"I came to take a snack with you and just to have a chat. But I see that you're in a great hurry and that you haven't a great deal to eat, so I don't expect you want me...."
"Do you think I sit down to an elaborate meal all by myself? No, Gerrit, I've no time for that."
"Have you a mouthful for me?"
"A mouthful, yes. I'll ring and order a couple of eggs for you."
She rang, ordered the eggs; and Gerrit was given a plate on the edge of the unlaid table: