Robert Benchley must contend with Hobart Cavanaugh and Esther Dale, who wish to sub-let his apartment. Actually, he must contend with Miss Dale; Cavanaugh doesn't say much of anything, but is pleased to smoke one of Benchley's cigars.
Long-term subleases are illegal in New York City, like so many things, and are very common. Given the byzantine housing laws, there are plenty of apartments rented for below-the-market rates, and plenty of renters happy to profit from the difference. I can't say that Miss Dale, with her attitude of "we're not going to take this apartment, but I want to know everything about it" is typical, but it is funny.
Long-term subleases are illegal in New York City, like so many things, and are very common. Given the byzantine housing laws, there are plenty of apartments rented for below-the-market rates, and plenty of renters happy to profit from the difference. I can't say that Miss Dale, with her attitude of "we're not going to take this apartment, but I want to know everything about it" is typical, but it is funny.