The Land of Promise: A Comedy in Four Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

I quite agree with you. I’ve been thinking things over very seriously this winter. And I’m going to look out for a middle-aged widow with money who’ll adopt me.

Norah.

I remember that you have decided views about the White Man’s Burden.

Hornby.

All I want is to get through life comfortably. I don’t mean to do a stroke more work than I’m obliged to, and I’m going to have the very best time I can get.

Norah.

[Smiling.] I’m sure you will.

Hornby.

The moment I get back to London I’m going to stand myself a slap-up dinner at the Ritz, then I shall go and see a musical comedy at the Gaiety, and after that I’ll have a slap-up supper at Romano’s. England, with all thy faults, I love thee well.

Norah.