Penelope: A Comedy in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Barlow.

I don’t know why you should think the mere mention of the Archduchess’s name would make me come here.

Penelope.

Well, you see, I know that you go out a great deal, and you know such crowds of people. I felt quite sure that if there were an Archduchess Anastasia you’d know her, and [with a wave of the hand] well, there it is you see.

[Barlow fumes silently, but does not answer.

Mrs. Golightly.

Now, Penelope, tell us what you really do want.

Penelope.

[In matter-of-fact tones.] I want to divorce Dickie.

Mrs. Golightly.