GWENDOLEN.
Yes, mamma. [Goes out, looking back at Jack.]
LADY BRACKNELL.
[Sitting down.] You can take a seat, Mr. Worthing.
[Looks in her pocket for note-book and pencil.]
JACK.
Thank you, Lady Bracknell, I prefer standing.
LADY BRACKNELL.
[Pencil and note-book in hand.] I feel bound to tell you that you are not down on my list of eligible young men, although I have the same list as the dear Duchess of Bolton has. We work together, in fact. However, I am quite ready to enter your name, should your answers be what a really affectionate mother requires. Do you smoke?
JACK.
Well, yes, I must admit I smoke.
LADY BRACKNELL.
I am glad to hear it. A man should always have an occupation of some kind. There are far too many idle men in London as it is. How old are you?
JACK.
Twenty-nine.
LADY BRACKNELL.
A very good age to be married at. I have always been of opinion that a man who desires to get married should know either everything or nothing. Which do you know?
JACK.
[After some hesitation.] I know nothing, Lady Bracknell.