Page:Eminent Authors of Contemporary Japan, volume 2.pdf/67

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It Will be Fine Tomorrow
51
  • Maid.—You are very kind. Sir. (She takes the tip. The bath-attendant takes his tip, and bows silently.)
  • Maid.—Can I do anything for you, Sir?
  • Husband.—Thanks, but there is nothing more I want. (The maid murmurs a few polite words and goes out. The bath-attendant also begins to leave.)
  • Husband.—Oh, will you wait a moment, please? Were you born near here?
    (The bath-attendant stares vaguely at the husband.)
  • Husband.—(continuing) Were you born in this village?
    (The bath-attendant bows slightly.)
  • Husband.—Is there no news of interest around here?
    (The bath-attendant grins.) They speak very highly of you here.
    (The bath-attendant looks at him suspiciously.)
    Well, can’t you answer me? (The bath-attendant remains silent.)
    What are you thinking about? (The bath-attendant still remains silent.)
  • Wife.(interrupting) Isn’t it time to start, my dear?
    (The husband gazes hard at the bath-attendant.)
  • Wife.—Oh, you have said enough, let him go.
    (The bath attendant bows and goes out.)
  • Wife.(indignantly) He is as close as an oyster!
    (A long silence.)
    (continuing) But don’t you think you were rather rude? (The husband suddenly bursts into laughter. She looks at him.)
  • Husband.—What impression did my remarks make upon him, do you think?