Jack Straw: A Farce in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Now, my dear people, I am at your service.

[Holland and Lady Wanley are sitting down. Jack Straw looks at Holland, who rises uneasily.

Holland.

Oh, don’t be such an ass, Jack.

Jack Straw.

[Frigidly.] I beg your pardon. [Pause.] Perhaps you’d be good enough to put down my hat.

[Holland takes it and flings it crossly on a chair.

Jack Straw.

I don’t think you’re in a very good humour this afternoon, Mr. Holland. I venture to think your manners leave something to be desired.