By the way, one generally shakes hands in the smartest circles. Yours seem to be down there somewhere. Might I trouble you? Right. Got it? Thanks!
In the quote from P.G. Wodehouse's "The Gem Collector," the speaker makes a satirical remark about social etiquette, suggesting that proper handshaking is reserved for more prestigious social groups. The humor lies in the condescending tone used to address someone perceived as being from a lower social status.
This commentary reflects Wodehouse's skill in critiquing societal norms and class distinctions, as the character's request for a handshake implies a superficial understanding of social interactions. The whimsical nature of his writing often highlights the absurdities of the upper-class behavior and interactions.