Elocutionist—Aux Italiens.
"At Paris it was, at the opera there,
And she looked like—"
Guest (to another)—Thirty cents, old chap! I tell you, there's nothing will knock you out quicker than—
Hostess—'Sh, 'sh, 'sh!
(Young woman finishes, and retires amidst subdued applause. Reappears immediately and gives "The Maniac.")
Hostess—As I have been disappointed in my best talent for this evening, Mr. Briggs has kindly consented to do some of his parlor-magic tricks.
(Mr. Briggs steps forward, a large, florid young man, wearing a "made" dress-tie, the buckle of which crawls up the back of his collar.)
Briggs—Now, ladies and gentlemen, I shall have to ask you all to move to the other side of the room. (This is accomplished with muttered uncomplimentary remarks concerning the magician.)
Briggs (to Hostess)—I must have the piano pushed to the further end. I must have plenty of space. (All the men guests are pressed into service, and, with much difficulty the piano is moved.)
Briggs—Now, I want four large screens.