It is a masterpiece, madam. (To CARVE.) Then I may not make an
offer for it?
CARVE. No.
JANET. Excuse me, Albert. Why shouldn't the gentleman make an offer for
it?
EBAG. (Quickly seizing an opportunity) If you cared to consider, say,
five hundred pounds.
JANET. Five hundred p----
EBAG. I came down quite prepared to spend--and to pay cash. (Fingers
his pocket-book.)
JANET. (Sitting down.) And if it isn't a rude question--do you
generally go about with five hundred pounds in your pocket, as it were?
EBAG. (Raising his hands.) In my business, madam--
CARVE. It's not for sale. (Turns it round.)
JANET. (Vivaciously.) Oh yes, it is. Somebody in this house must
think about the future. (Cajolingly.) If this gentleman can show me
five hundred pounds it's for sale. After all, it's my picture. And you
can do me another one. I'd much sooner be done without the
cooking-sleeves. (Entreating.) Albert!
CARVE. (Shy, nervous, and tongue-tied.) Well!
JANET. (Endearingly.) That's right! That's all right!
EBAG.
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