Jacky (quickly). No. If I did, I could not declare that I was satisfied with your progress!
Pater. (indignantly). You little prig, I—
Jacky (calmly interrupting). Pray do not excite yourself. I am only doing my duty. I am merely attempting to instruct those less polished than myself. Surely I may regard such an action with satisfaction?
Pater. (furious). You shall go back to school at once!
Jacky. I am afraid that that is scarcely practicable. If you will refer to the slip that accompanied my school-bill, you will notice that the Vacation does not cease until the 20th of September.
Pater. And a nice school-bill! Why they charged everything as an extra!
Jacky. Surely such a matter is scarcely within my province? According to statute, my dear Father, you are bound to provide for me until (if my memory does not betray me) I reach the age of sixteen. As I am now five years younger than that limit, it is clearly your duty to support me.
Pater. Why, Sir, you are insupportable!
Jacky (smiling). I see—a joke—very good! But, my dear Sir, do you think it quite dignified to make so small a jest in my presence? It is calculated to lessen my respect for you.
Pater. Well I never!