Mrs. S. Alice, you alarm me, this is dreadful. Oh, anything but a drunkard! But why do you encourage Dick Plyer, if he is so dangerous?
Alice. Encourage him! I never encouraged him. I wanted to be sure of his character, and now that I know his weakness I shall decline his company.
Mrs. S. But what can I do for poor Bob?
Alice. Take the wine off your own table.
Mrs. S. I never thought of that. But then Robert wishes it. It is necessary for his digestion he says.
Alice. If put to the test which would he prefer? You or the wine?
Mrs. S. Oh me, of course. He is so fond of me.
Alice. That is what all wives say. Listen to me. Dick Plyer has written me a note that he will call this very evening. He’ll come up with Bob and you will set out refreshments. The men will make a pretense of eating, but they will drink a great deal more. For some men the word refreshments means drink. They don’t care a snap about the eating.
Mrs. S. Oh goodness! I’ve noticed some men eat enough for a family.
Alice. Take my advice and observe them closely.