Can someone help me with today's Dilbert?

[Paul Brogger]

I don't "get" the final line in
today's Dilbert strip. Is it something that should be obvious?

[Barry Schwartz]

57 is the part number of a HP inkjet cartridge. Note that the man is a printer cartridge salesman.

[Paul Brogger]

I appreciate that.

[Tracy]

Know I understand the meaning, but is it funny?

[Cameron]

Humour is much more subjective than the value of an old HP!

I think both the salesman's responses are supposed to be sarcastic. The "receptionist" earnestly introduces herself and then sarcastically dismisses his comment about being the CEO by suggesting that *he* must be Carly. He attempts a weak riposte--lamely misidentifying her as a printer cartridge--and he ultimately loses the exchange.

I'd rate it as a smirk. I guess it depends on your view of the stereotypical receptionist and toner salesman.

Cameron

PS: Happy New Year to all.

[Vieira, Luiz C. (Brazil)]

Hi Cameron, all;

should it reffer to some weird situation involving Carly, mainly her being missidentified or misidentifying someone/something else? I don't follow economics backstages, maybe someone here does...

Just a guess.

Luiz (Brazil)