Helms. My son-in-law has been appointed postal inspector.
Krakau. Postal Inspector! That's not a very high office. I suppose that is why Knut hasn't turned up to-day.
Helms [resentfully]. You haven't congratulated me.
Krakau. Because he's a postal inspector? Hump! Congratulations. [Pushes aside the chessboard and rises.]
Helms [ironically]. Thanks. Ah, if my daughter had lived, she would be proud.
Krakau [over his shoulder]. If Mary's gray cat had been a horse she could have gone riding in the park.
Helms [regarding him sharply over his glasses]. Do you know what I have noticed, Krakau? [Krakau does not answer.] I have noticed that whenever I mention my son-in-law you get mad.
Krakau. So?
Helms [querulously]. Yes you do. I noticed it long ago. I don't see what you've got against him. His son Knut is your godson, too.
Krakau. We'll not talk about that, Helms.