Briggs (much annoyed)—I particularly wanted the gold-fish, the clock and the barrel.
(Guests grow restless.)
Hostess—Couldn't you do a trick while we are waiting—one with the egg-beater and turnip?
Briggs—No; I don't know one.
Hostess—Couldn't you make up one?
Briggs (icily)—Certainly not.
(Gloom descends over the company, until the Poor Relative arrives, staggering under the clothes-horse.)
Chorus of Men Guests—Let me help you!
(Improvised screen is finally arranged. Briggs performs "parlor magic" for an hour. Guests, fidget, yawn and commence to drop away, one by one.)
Guest (to Hostess)—Really, we must tear ourselves away. Such a delightful evening!—not a dull moment. And your punch—heavenly! Do ask us again. Good night.