§ 189 The Made-in-England Substitute
An American actor with a reputation for wit went to a luncheon given by a famous actress to several members of her supporting company. Among the guests of honor was an English leading man, who rather fancied himself—and showed it. He monopolized the conversation, speaking copiously and feelingly of himself, his personality and his merits.
From his place across the table the American eyed him with an enhancing disfavor. At length he turned to the man sitting next him on the right.
“Our British friend over there is by way of being a regular ass, isn’t he?” he asked in a whisper.
“Oh I’d hardly go so far as to say that,” answered his neighbor.
“Well, he’ll do, won’t he, till one comes?” said the American.