ACT 1 SCENE 1

Question 1

START

Answer 1

Did you hear what I was playing, Lane?

Question 2

LANE: I didn’t think it polite to listen, sir.

Answer 2

I’m sorry for that! For your sake!

I don’t play accurately - no, anybody can play accurately - but I play with wonderful expression.

As far as the piano is concerned, sentiment … is my forte.

Question 3

LANE: Yes, sir.

Answer 3

Have you got the cucumber sandwiches cut for Lady Bracknell?

Question 4

LANE: Yes, sir. [hands cucumber sandwiches]

Answer 4

Oh…! And by the way, Lane, on Thursday night, when Lord Shoreman and Mr Worthing were dining with me…

Eight bottles of champagne are entered as having been consumed.

Question 5

LANE: Yes, sir; eight bottles and a pint.

Answer 5

Why is it that at a bachelor’s establishment, the servants invariably drink the champagne?

(interrupts Lane just as they are about to speak)

I ask merely for information!

Question 6

LANE: I attribute it to the superior quality of the wine, sir.
…in married households, the champagne is rarely of a first-rate brand.

Answer 6

Good heavens! Is marriage so demoralising as that?

Question 7

LANE: I believe it is a very pleasant state, sir.
…That was a consequence of a misunderstanding between myself and a … young person.

Answer 7

I don’t know I am much interested in your family life, Lane.

Question 8

LANE: … I never think of it myself.

Answer 8

Very natural, I am sure. That will do, Lane, thank you.

Question 9

LANE: Thank you, sir. [goes out]

Answer 9

Delectable as always, Lane.