Sphinx. You are very inquisitive and extremely indiscreet, and I have always carefully avoided being interviewed. However, go on.
Poet. I believe you can read hieroglyphs?
Sphinx. Oh yes; I can, fluently, But I never do. I assure you they are not in the least amusing.
Poet. No doubt you have talked with hippogriffs and basilisks?
Sphinx (modestly). I certainly was in rather a smart set at one time. As they say, I have "known better days."
Poet. Did you ever have any conversation with Thoth?
Sphinx (loftily). Oh, dear no! (Mimicking.) Thoth he wath not conthidered quite a nice perthon. I would not allow him to be introduced to me.
Poet. You were very particular?
Sphinx. One has to be careful. The world is so censorious.
Poet. I wonder, would you give me the pleasure of singing to me? "Adrian's Gilded Barge," for instance?