No, old Smith answered absent-mindedly, his eyes still on his work, it
ain’t her coffin, it’s a new hen house.
* * * * *
The world has so long been at war with the hapless printer that it will
be interesting to know that at least one compositor has been capable of
following instructions. Once upon a time a printer brought to Booth for
inspection proof of a new poster, which after the manner of its kind,
announced the actor as the eminent tragedian, Edwin Booth.
Mr. Booth did not fully approve of it.
I wish you’d leave out that eminent tragedian business. I’d much rather
have it simple Edwin Booth, he said.
Very good, sir.
The next week the actor saw the first of his new bills in position. His
request had been carried out to the letter. The poster announced the
coming engagement of Simple Edwin Booth.
* * * * *