Mr Rumbold and Mr Lucas in “Unfinished Business”

Mr Rumbold

I always think there is a reason for poor performance. Now, a happy salesman is a good salesman. And you don't look happy, Mr Lucas. I think if you could smile more, that would help.

Mr Lucas

Well, I'm sorry if I haven't been smiling enough, Mr Rumbold.

Mr Rumbold

Well, there must be a reason. Are you, um... And I don't wish to pry, but are you, um... Are you unhappy at home?

Mr Lucas

Ah... Yes! That could very well be it, yes!

Mr Rumbold

Now we're getting somewhere, sit down and tell me about it.

Mr Lucas

Thank you, yes. [Sits at Rumbold's desk. Rumbold sits in the chair opposite) It's my environment you see, sir. You see, I've only got this one shabby little room.

Mr Rumbold

In Highgate, isn't it?

Mr Lucas

Yes, yes, very poor part of Highgate mind, I mean... And ever since we took in that Asian to help make ends meet, well... The strain has been too much for my crippled mother and she's had to give up her job at the skating rink. Taking the tickets.

Mr Rumbold

I had no idea!

Mr Lucas

Yes... Well... [Pretending to hold back tears] What with that, and the fact that the... The cat's got asthma and has been coughing all night. What with all that and also the fact that we have to cook on a broken old gas ring, well... There are days when somehow, life seems to have lost its magic. And particularly since we had an eviction note this morning! But as you suggest, Mr Rumbold, I will do my best and try and smile a bit more.

Mr Rumbold

[Blows nose] This really is a terrible story!

Mr Lucas

[Surprised] Is it?!