a human being estimated these days?

TAX ASSESSOR. Two per hundred, Your Grace;--all depends on what one
is good for.

PEHR. Tell me, can't I withdraw while the gentlemen figure up? for
I am both hungry and thirsty.

TAX ASSESSOR. Impossible! It must be done in the owner's presence.

PEHR. O Lord, what trials! But I may be allowed to sit down at
least?

TAX ASSESSOR. As you please! [To assistants.] Two dozen plates with
beveled edges--write! Six wine-coolers, with handles of finer
metal--write! One sugar bowl, with sifting spoon, and two smaller
ditto--write! Two dozen knives, with handles of mother-of-pearl--
brand new--write!

PEHR. See if I don't go crazy!

TAX ASSESSOR. Dining table of oak, with double leaves--write! Six
walnut chairs. [Enter Lawyer.]

PEHR. One more!

LAWYER. Your Grace is summoned to the City Court to have tax No.
2867 legalized before twelve o'clock this day.

PEHR. The Court? Litigation? I never institute proceedings, sir!