Second Lady Friend. And it was bought, so I have been told, at the Exhibition of 1851.
Professor Grumbles (interposing). Dear lady, I fancy you have made a mistake in your dates. Now, if the box was in your family a century, and it came from the Exhibition of 1851, it must——
Hostess (interposing). Oh, my dear Professor, pray don’t worry us with statistics. Now, what have you got?
Professor Grumbles (producing a bag). Well dear lady, my little contribution to the general hilarity of the occasion will be caused by my friend in the bag. It is a specimen—a very rare specimen—of the South African puff-adder. Most doctors will tell you that the sting of this reptile is dangerous. (He produces from the bag a black, vicious-looking snake.) In fact, most people will say that the sting, or rather a bite, is certain death. But be reassured, my good friends. In spite of this universal belief, I may say that, without expressing an absolutely definite opinion, I don’t think so!
[“Curiosity” tea disperses rapidly and in some confusion.
CONFUSION WORSE CONFOUNDED