SIDE

MR. SOWERBERRY

If you don't mind! Cash upon liking, Mr. Bumble! Cash upon liking!

(calls off to MRS. SOWERBERRY)

Mrs. Sowerberry!

(MRS. SOWERBERRY enters.)

MRS. SOWERBERRY

What is it you want? What is it? Oh, Mr. Bumble!

MR. SOWERBERRY

My dear, I have told Mr. Bumble that we may consider taking in this boy to help in the shop.

MRS. SOWERBERRY

Dear me! He's very small.

(OLIVER goes onto tip-toe.)

MR. BUMBLE

Yes, he is rather small - there's no denying it. But he'll grow, Mrs. Sowerberry - he'll grow.

(MRS. SOWERBERRY examines OLIVER doubtfully.)

MRS. SOWERBERRY

I dare say he will, on our vittles and our drink. They're a waste of time, these workhouse boys. They always cost more to keep than what they're worth. What's your name, boy?

OLIVER

Oliver. Oliver Twist, ma'am.

MRS. SOWERBERRY

An orphan then, Mr. Bumble?

MR. BUMBLE

Indeed Mrs. Sowerberry. The child's mother came to us destitute... brings the child into the world... takes one look at him... and promptly dies without leaving so much as a forwarding name and address.

MRS. SOWERBERRY

Very well then, junior coffin-follower... that's your job... have you eaten yet?

END