Mr. Talmann Quotes in The Draughtsman's Contract (1982)

Mr. Talmann: The gardens of England are becoming veritable jungles, such exotics are grossly unsuitable. If the Garden of Eden was planned for England, God would have seen to it.

Mr. Neville: The Garden of Eden, Mr. Talman, was originally intended for Ireland. For it was there, after all, that St. Patrick eradicated the snake.

Mr. Talmann: The only useful eradication that ever happened in Ireland, Mr. Neville, was peformed by William of Orange four years ago on my birthday!

Mr. Neville: And happy birthday to you, Mr. Talman. And if you are not too old to receive presents, perhaps the gardener and I can find a snake for your Orangerie!

Mr. Talmann: ...What?

[to his nephew Augustus]

Mr. Talmann: Chasing sheep is a tiresome habit best left to shepherds.

[pretending to accuse Mr. Neville of murder]

Mr. Talmann: More than a witness, Mr. Neville - an accessory to misadventure.