The Baker's Dozen Page #2

"The Baker's Dozen" by Hector Hugh Munro, also known as Saki, is a whimsical and satirical tale that explores themes of greed and the nature of human behavior through the lens of a seemingly simple story. The narrative revolves around a baker who, faced with the decision of whether to give a customer an extra doughnut, finds himself entangled in humorous misadventures. Saki's sharp wit and keen observations on society highlight the absurdities of social norms and the consequences of our choices. The story serves as both entertainment and social commentary, showcasing Saki's unique storytelling style and flair for the absurd.

• Short story

								


Maj.: Isn't it rather an exaggeration to talk of one little female
child as a family?  A family suggests numbers.

Mrs. P.-P.: Really, Major, you language is extraordinary.  I dare say
I've only got a little female child, as you call it, at present--

Maj.: Oh, it won't change into a boy later on, if that's what you're
counting on.  Take our word for it; we've had so much more experience in
these affairs than you have.  Once a female, always a female.  Nature is
not infallible, but she always abides by her mistakes.

Mrs. P.-P. (rising): Major Dumbarton, these boats are uncomfortably
small, but I trust we shall find ample accommodation for avoiding each
other's society during the rest of the voyage.  The same wish applies to
you, Mrs. Carewe.

(Exit Mrs. Paly-Paget, L.)

Maj.: What an unnatural mother!  (Sinks into chair.)

Em.: I wouldn't trust a child with any one who had a temper like hers.
Oh, Dickie, why did you go and have such a large family?  You always said
you wanted me to be the mother of your children.

Maj.: I wasn't going to wait while you were founding and fostering
dynasties in other directions.  Why you couldn't be content to have
children of your own, without collecting them like batches of postage
stamps I can't think.  The idea of marrying a man with four children!

Em.: Well, you're asking me to marry one with five.

Maj.: Five!  (Springing to his feet)  Did I say five?

Em.: You certainly said five.

Maj.: Oh, Emily, supposing I've miscounted them!  Listen now, keep
count with me.  Richard--that's after me, of course.

Em.: One.

Maj.: Albert-Victor--that must have been in Coronation year.

Em.: Two!

Maj.: Maud.  She's called after--

Em.: Never mind who's she's called after.  Three!

Maj.: And Gerald.

Em.: Four!

Maj.: That's the lot.

Em.: Are you sure?

Maj.: I swear that's the lot.  I must have counted Albert-Victor as
two.

Em.: Richard!

Maj.: Emily!

                             (They embrace.)
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