Jack Straw: A Farce in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

I thought they were very nice. That’s why it struck me Mrs. Withers might like them.

Mrs. Parker-Jennings.

[Snatching them from him.] Oh!

[She flounces out, followed by Parker-Jennings.

Jack Straw.

[Coming into the room calmly.] I’m afraid I haven’t done the right thing.

Serlo.

You’ve put your foot right in it this time, old man.

Jack Straw.

I wish I had that little book of etiquette on me. I wonder if it says anything about prize roses. [To Ethel.] I haven’t had the pleasure of saying good-morning to you yet.