Faust. Yes, I have met her very often in Germany. Though the Emperor would not receive her at first, she is much admired in Europe.
Lady Journalist (hedging). I wonder
where she gets her frocks? They must be worth a good deal.
Faust. From Ricketts and Shannon, if you want to know.
Lady Journalist. Dear Doctor, you know everything! Let me see: Ricketts and Shannon is that new place in Regent Street, rather like Lewis and Allenby’s, I suppose?
Faust. Yes, only different.
Irish Peer (to Faust). Do you think Lady Walpurge will ever get into Society?
Faust. Not if she gives her guests such wretched coffee.
Lady Journalist. It’s nothing to her tea. I’ve never had such bad tea. Besides, she cannot get actors or actresses to come to her house.
Lady Walpurge (overhearing). I expect Sir Herbert and Lady Beerbohm Tree here to-night, and perhaps Viola. (Sensation.)