The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
page 73 of 107 (68%)
page 73 of 107 (68%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
Cecily. Do you suggest, Miss Fairfax, that I entrapped Ernest into
an engagement? How dare you? This is no time for wearing the shallow mask of manners. When I see a spade I call it a spade. Gwendolen. [Satirically.] I am glad to say that I have never seen a spade. It is obvious that our social spheres have been widely different. [Enter Merriman, followed by the footman. He carries a salver, table cloth, and plate stand. Cecily is about to retort. The presence of the servants exercises a restraining influence, under which both girls chafe.] Merriman. Shall I lay tea here as usual, Miss? Cecily. [Sternly, in a calm voice.] Yes, as usual. [Merriman begins to clear table and lay cloth. A long pause. Cecily and Gwendolen glare at each other.] Gwendolen. Are there many interesting walks in the vicinity, Miss Cardew? Cecily. Oh! yes! a great many. From the top of one of the hills quite close one can see five counties. Gwendolen. Five counties! I don't think I should like that; I hate crowds. Cecily. [Sweetly.] I suppose that is why you live in town? [Gwendolen bites her lip, and beats her foot nervously with her |
|