unearths some literary gems.
From the libretto to Thespis, by W. S. Gilbert:
THES. Oh why did the gods make me a manager?
SILL. (as guessing a riddle) Why did the gods make him a manager?
SPAR. Why did the gods make him a manager?
DAPH. Why did the gods make him a manager?
PRETT. Why did the gods make him a manager?
THES. No—no—what are you talking about? what do you mean?
DAPH. I’ve got it—don’t tell us—
ALL No—no—because—because—
THES. (annoyed) It isn’t a conundrum—it’s a misanthropical question.