Husband.—Gracious goodness! The fellow heeds what my wife says, and won't heed what I say myself! Do you mean that you have made up your mind to brave me?

[Threatening to beat him.

Servant.—Oh! I will obey.

Husband.—No, no! you mean to brave me!

Servant.—Oh no, sir! surely I have no choice but to obey.

Husband.—Really and truly?

Servant.—Yes, really and truly.

Husband.—My anger was only a feint. Well, then, take my place, please.

Servant.—Yes, to be sure; if it is your desire, I will do so.

Husband.—That is really too delightful. Just stop quiet while I set things to rights for you to sit in abstraction.