(Enter Baron von Gosheimer and women guests.)
Hostess—Dear baron, how good of you! I was just saying, if you didn't come I should wish my musicale in Jericho. And, now that you are here, I don't care if any one else comes or not. (To women guests.) How d'ye do? I must apologize for Mr. Smythe—he's been detained down-town. He just telephoned me. He'll be in later. Do sit down; it's just as cheap as standing, I always say, and it does save your feet. You ladies can find seats over in the corner. (Detaining Baron.) Dear baron—(Enter guests.)
Guest—So glad you have a clear evening. Now, when we gave our affair, it poured. Of course, we had a crowd, just the same. People always come to us, whether it rains or not. (Takes a seat. Guests begin to arrive in numbers.)
Hostess—So sweet of you to come!
Guest—So glad you have a pleasant evening. I am sure to have a bad night whenever I entertain—
Hostess—(to another guest)—So delightful of you to come!
Guest—Such a perfect evening! I'm so glad. I said as we started out, "Now, this time, Mrs. Smythe can't help but have plenty of people. Whenever I entertain, it's sure to—" (More guests.)
(Telegram arrives, announcing that the prima donna has a sore throat, and will be unable to come. Time passes.)
Male Guest (to another)—Well, I wish to heaven, something would be doing soon. This is the deadest affair I was ever up against.
Omnipresent Joker (greeting acquaintance)—Hello, old man!—going to sing to-night?