2. Listen to the tape. Write down the three things that happen in this scene.

(1) They take him to another part of the shop and offer him many suits to buy.

(2) They explain that he need not pay until it is convenient and they will deliver his suits to his hotel.

(3) They offer to arrange his hotel accommodation for him.

3. Listen again and answer these questions in groups.

(1) Why doesn’t the salesman give Henry his change right away?

The salesman is shocked after receiving such a huge sum of money.

(2) Is the owner really angry at the salesman or does he just pretend to be angry? How do you know?

The owner is pretending to be angry at the salesman. Actually, the owner and all of the salesmen feel a bit foolish. The owner is also trying to save face.

(3) Is Henry glad to get more than one coat? How do you know?

   No. Henry wants only one coat and complains that the others are unnecessary.

(4) Henry tells the owner that he is moving. Give two reasons why the owner isn’t surprised to hear this news.

First, the owner believes rich men often change their address. Also, he is a foreigner, so he is likely to be a tourist who would be expected to change his address.

(5) What does the owner offer to do for Henry? Why?

He offers to help Henry get a room in the “Ritz”, one of the best hotels in London as a way to show special favour and gain more of Henry’s business in return.

Listening text

N=Narrator         O=Owner  

S=Salesman               H=Henry

Act Two, Scene 2

N: The salesman drops Henry’s coat. Then he looks at the bank note again and again. He can’t believe his eyes.

O: Well, what seems to be the trouble?

H: I’m still waiting for my change.

O: Come, come, give him his change, Todd. Get going. (looks at the bank note) Could it be the one I saw in the papers last week? I think it must be. You’re a born fool, Todd, to bring this fine gentleman into this part of our shop.

S: Sorry, Mr Reid.

O: He’ll think we’ve never dealt with a rich man before. Oh, take off this coat, sir. Why, it’s only fit for a man in a circus. Well, don’t just stand there, go and get some others, Todd!

S: Right away, Mr Reid.

O: Allow me, sir! This way, sir. Look at this coat. This is perfect! It was made for a king, but he’ll just have to wait. Now sir, you’ll need many suits for many occasions. Yes, indeed you will.

H: Now, wait a minute. I only came here to get a coat.

O: Now, now, sir.

H: But I can’t buy all these things. You would have to wait a long time to get paid.

O:  A long time, sir? A long time? Why, I’ll be glad to wait … forever!

S:  Yes, we can wait forever!

H:  Well, all right. I’ll take the coat now and get the others later.

O:  Fine, fine. Your address, sir?

H:  I don’t have one yet. I’m… moving.

O:  Of course you are! A busy man, I’m sure. Well, take my advice and stay at Ritz. It’s the finest hotel in this part of London. I’ll call them and tell them to expect you. Leave it to me!