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

Rh *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?