It was after a little dinner at Kettner's; they suggested the theatre, and he thought he would give them a treat.

He did not mention to them that he was the author, and they never looked at the programme.

Their faces as the play proceeded lengthened; it did not seem to be their school of comedy.

At the end of the first act they sprang to their feet.
"Let's chuck this rot," suggested one.
"Let's go to the Empire," suggested the other.

The well-known dramatist followed them out.