He will lunch with you at your flat tomorrow at one-thirty. Please remember that he drinks no wine, strongly disapproves of smoking, and can only eat the simplest food, owing to an impaired digestion. Do not offer him coffee, for he considers it the root of half the nerve-trouble in the world.""I should think a dog-biscuit and a glass of water would about meet the case, what?""Bertie!
In this excerpt, a character is informed about an upcoming lunch with a guest who has specific dietary restrictions and preferences. The guest avoids wine, disapproves of smoking, and requires simple foods due to delicate digestion, highlighting the need for careful consideration in planning the meal. The mention of coffee being an enemy to mental health adds a layer of seriousness to his likes and dislikes.
The responding character humorously suggests that very basic food, like a dog biscuit and water, may suffice to accommodate the guest's needs. This lighthearted exchange illustrates not only the absurdity of the situation but also the protagonist's often comedic take on the formality and expectations surrounding dining etiquette.