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  <head>
    <title>
      Third Series Plays, THE PIGEON by John Galsworthy
    </title>
    <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve">

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<pre xml:space="preserve">
Project Gutenberg's The Pigeon (Third Series Plays), by John Galsworthy

 This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
 almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
 re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
 with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org

 Title: The Pigeon (Third Series Plays)

 Author: John Galsworthy


 Release Date: September 26, 2004 [EBook #2913]
 Last Updated: October 28, 2012

 Language: English

 Character set encoding: ASCII

 *** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PIGEON (THIRD SERIES PLAYS) ***

 Produced by David Widger
</pre>
    <p>
      <br /><br />
    </p>
    <h2>
      <i>GALSWORTHY'S PLAYS</i>
    </h2>
    <p>
      <a name="link2H_TOC" id="link2H_TOC">
      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
    </p>
    <h2>
      <i>Links to All Volumes</i>
    </h2>
     <table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto" cellpadding="4" border="3">
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE FIRST SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2906/2906-h/2906-h.htm"><b>The
          Silver Box</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2907/2907-h/2907-h.htm"><b>Joy</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2908/2908-h/2908-h.htm"><b>Strife</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE SECOND SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2909/2909-h/2909-h.htm"><b>The
          Eldest Son</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2910/2910-h/2910-h.htm"><b>Little
          Dream</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2911/2911-h/2911-h.htm"><b>Justice</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE THIRD SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2912/2912-h/2912-h.htm"><b>The
          Fugitive</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2913/2913-h/2913-h.htm"><b>The
          Pigeon</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2914/2914-h/2914-h.htm"><b>The
          Mob</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE FOURTH SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2915/2915-h/2915-h.htm"><b>A
          Bit O'Love</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2916/2916-h/2916-h.htm"><b>The
          Foundations</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2917/2917-h/2917-h.htm"><b>The
          Skin Game</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE FIFTH SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/4764/4764-h/4764-h.htm"><b>A
          Family Man</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/4765/4765-h/4765-h.htm"><b>Loyalties</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/4766/4766-h/4766-h.htm"><b>Windows</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE SIXTH SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2918/2918-h/2918-h.htm"><b>The
          First and Last</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2919/2919-h/2919-h.htm"><b>The
          Little Man</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2920/2920-h/2920-h.htm"><b>Four
          Short Plays</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
    </table>
    <p>
      <br /> <br /> <br />
    </p>
    <hr />
    <p>
      <br /> <br />
    </p>
    <h2>
      <i>GALSWORTHY PLAYS&mdash;SERIES 3</i>
    </h2>
    <p>
      <br /><br />
    </p>
    <h1>
      THE PIGEON
    </h1>
    <h3>
      A Fantasy in Three Acts
    </h3>
    <p>
      <br /><br />
    </p>
    <h2>
      By John Galsworthy
    </h2>
    <p>
      <br /> <br />
    </p>
    <hr />
    <p>
      <br /> <br />
    </p>
    <table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto" cellpadding="4" border="3">
      <tr>
        <td>
          <p class="toc">
            <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> ACT I </a>
          </p>
          <p class="toc">
            <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> ACT II </a>
          </p>
          <p class="toc">
            <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> ACT III </a>
          </p>
        </td>
      </tr>
    </table>
    <p>
      <br /> <br />
    </p>
    <hr />
    <p>
      <br /> <br /> PERSONS OF THE PLAY
    </p>
<pre xml:space="preserve">
 CHRISTOPHER WELLWYN, an artist
 ANN, his daughter
 GUINEVERE MEGAN, a flower-seller
 RORY MEGAN, her husband
 FERRAND, an alien
 TIMSON, once a cabman
 EDWARD BERTLEY, a Canon
 ALFRED CALWAY, a Professor
 SIR THOMAS HOXTON, a Justice of the Peace
 Also a police constable, three humble-men, and some curious persons
</pre>
    <p>
      The action passes in Wellwyn's Studio, and the street outside.
    </p>
    <p>
      <br /> <br />
    </p>
<pre xml:space="preserve">
     ACT I. Christmas Eve.

     ACT II. New Year's Day.

     ACT III. The First of April.
</pre>
    <p>
      <br /> <br />
    </p>
    <hr />
    <p>
      <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001">
      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
    </p>
    <h2>
      ACT I
    </h2>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        It is the night of Christmas Eve, the SCENE is a Studio, flush with the
        street, having a skylight darkened by a fall of snow. There is no one in
        the room, the walls of which are whitewashed, above a floor of bare dark
        boards. A fire is cheerfully burning. On a model's platform stands an
        easel and canvas. There are busts and pictures; a screen, a little
        stool, two arm. chairs, and a long old-fashioned settle under the
        window. A door in one wall leads to the house, a door in the opposite
        wall to the model's dressing-room, and the street door is in the centre
        of the wall between. On a low table a Russian samovar is hissing, and
        beside it on a tray stands a teapot, with glasses, lemon, sugar, and a
        decanter of rum. Through a huge uncurtained window close to the street
        door the snowy lamplit street can be seen, and beyond it the river and a
        night of stars. The sound of a latchkey turned in the lock of the street
        door, and ANN WELLWYN enters, a girl of seventeen, with hair tied in a
        ribbon and covered by a scarf. Leaving the door open, she turns up the
        electric light and goes to the fire. She throws of her scarf and long
        red cloak. She is dressed in a high evening frock of some soft white
        material. Her movements are quick and substantial. Her face, full of no
        nonsense, is decided and sincere, with deep-set eyes, and a capable,
        well-shaped forehead. Shredding of her gloves she warms her hands. In
        the doorway appear the figures of two men. The first is rather short and
        slight, with a soft short beard, bright soft eyes, and a crumply face.
        Under his squash hat his hair is rather plentiful and rather grey. He
        wears an old brown ulster and woollen gloves, and is puffing at a
        hand-made cigarette. He is ANN'S father, WELLWYN, the artist. His
        companion is a well-wrapped clergyman of medium height and stoutish
        build, with a pleasant, rosy face, rather shining eyes, and rather
        chubby clean-shaped lips; in appearance, indeed, a grown-up boy. He is
        the Vicar of the parish&mdash;CANON BERTLEY.
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. My dear Wellwyn, the whole question of reform is full of
      difficulty. When you have two men like Professor Calway and Sir Thomas
      Hoxton taking diametrically opposite points of view, as we've seen
      to-night, I confess, I&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Come in, Vicar, and have some grog.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Not to-night, thanks! Christmas tomorrow! Great temptation,
      though, this room! Goodnight, Wellwyn; good-night, Ann!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Coming from the fire towards the tea-table.] Good-night, Canon
      Bertley.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He goes out, and WELLWYN, shutting the door after him, approaches the
        fire.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [Sitting on the little stool, with her back to the fire, and making
      tea.] Daddy!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. My dear?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. You say you liked Professor Calway's lecture. Is it going to do you
      any good, that's the question?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I&mdash;I hope so, Ann.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. I took you on purpose. Your charity's getting simply awful. Those two
      this morning cleared out all my housekeeping money.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Um! Um! I quite understand your feeling.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. They both had your card, so I couldn't refuse&mdash;didn't know what
      you'd said to them. Why don't you make it a rule never to give your card
      to anyone except really decent people, and&mdash;picture dealers, of
      course.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. My dear, I have&mdash;often.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Then why don't you keep it? It's a frightful habit. You are naughty,
      Daddy. One of these days you'll get yourself into most fearful
      complications.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. My dear, when they&mdash;when they look at you?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. You know the house wants all sorts of things. Why do you speak to
      them at all?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I don't&mdash;they speak to me.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He takes of his ulster and hangs it over the back of an arm-chair.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. They see you coming. Anybody can see you coming, Daddy. That's why
      you ought to be so careful. I shall make you wear a hard hat. Those
      squashy hats of yours are hopelessly inefficient.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Gazing at his hat.] Calway wears one.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. As if anyone would beg of Professor Calway.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well-perhaps not. You know, Ann, I admire that fellow. Wonderful
      power of-of-theory! How a man can be so absolutely tidy in his mind! It's
      most exciting.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Has any one begged of you to-day?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Doubtfully.] No&mdash;no.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [After a long, severe look.] Will you have rum in your tea?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Crestfallen.] Yes, my dear&mdash;a good deal.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Pouring out the rum, and handing him the glass.] Well, who was it?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. He didn't beg of me. [Losing himself in recollection.]
      Interesting old creature, Ann&mdash;real type. Old cabman.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Where?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Just on the Embankment.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Of course! Daddy, you know the Embankment ones are always rotters.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes, my dear; but this wasn't.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Did you give him your card?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I&mdash;I&mdash;don't
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Did you, Daddy?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I'm rather afraid I may have!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. May have! It's simply immoral.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, the old fellow was so awfully human, Ann. Besides, I didn't
      give him any money&mdash;hadn't got any.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Look here, Daddy! Did you ever ask anybody for anything? You know you
      never did, you'd starve first. So would anybody decent. Then, why won't
      you see that people who beg are rotters?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. But, my dear, we're not all the same. They wouldn't do it if it
      wasn't natural to them. One likes to be friendly. What's the use of being
      alive if one isn't?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Daddy, you're hopeless.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. But, look here, Ann, the whole thing's so jolly complicated.
      According to Calway, we're to give the State all we can spare, to make the
      undeserving deserving. He's a Professor; he ought to know. But old
      Hoxton's always dinning it into me that we ought to support private
      organisations for helping the deserving, and damn the undeserving. Well,
      that's just the opposite. And he's a J.P. Tremendous experience. And the
      Vicar seems to be for a little bit of both. Well, what the devil&mdash;&mdash;?
      My trouble is, whichever I'm with, he always converts me. [Ruefully.] And
      there's no fun in any of them.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Rising.] Oh! Daddy, you are so&mdash;don't you know that you're the
      despair of all social reformers? [She envelops him.] There's a tear in the
      left knee of your trousers. You're not to wear them again.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Am I likely to?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. I shouldn't be a bit surprised if it isn't your only pair. D'you know
      what I live in terror of?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN gives her a queer and apprehensive look.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. That you'll take them off some day, and give them away in the street.
      Have you got any money? [She feels in his coat, and he his trousers&mdash;they
      find nothing.] Do you know that your pockets are one enormous hole?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. No!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Spiritually.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! Ah! H'm!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Severely.] Now, look here, Daddy! [She takes him by his lapels.]
      Don't imagine that it isn't the most disgusting luxury on your part to go
      on giving away things as you do! You know what you really are, I suppose&mdash;a
      sickly sentimentalist!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Breaking away from her, disturbed.] It isn't sentiment. It's
      simply that they seem to me so&mdash;so&mdash;jolly. If I'm to give up
      feeling sort of&mdash;nice in here [he touches his chest] about people&mdash;it
      doesn't matter who they are&mdash;then I don't know what I'm to do. I
      shall have to sit with my head in a bag.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. I think you ought to.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I suppose they see I like them&mdash;then they tell me things.
      After that, of course you can't help doing what you can.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Well, if you will love them up!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. My dear, I don't want to. It isn't them especially&mdash;why, I
      feel it even with old Calway sometimes. It's only Providence that he
      doesn't want anything of me&mdash;except to make me like himself&mdash;confound
      him!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Moving towards the door into the house&mdash;impressively.] What you
      don't see is that other people aren't a bit like you.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, thank God!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. It's so old-fashioned too! I'm going to bed&mdash;I just leave you to
      your conscience.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Opening the door-severely.] Good-night&mdash;[with a certain
      weakening] you old&mdash;Daddy!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She jumps at him, gives him a hug, and goes out.] [WELLWYN stands
        perfectly still. He first gazes up at the skylight, then down at the
        floor. Slowly he begins to shake his head, and mutter, as he moves
        towards the fire.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Bad lot.... Low type&mdash;no backbone, no stability!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There comes a fluttering knock on the outer door. As the sound slowly
        enters his consciousness, he begins to wince, as though he knew, but
        would not admit its significance. Then he sits down, covering his ears.
        The knocking does not cease. WELLWYN drops first one, then both hands,
        rises, and begins to sidle towards the door. The knocking becomes
        louder.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ah dear! Tt! Tt! Tt!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [After a look in the direction of ANN's disappearance, he opens the
        street door a very little way. By the light of the lamp there can be
        seen a young girl in dark clothes, huddled in a shawl to which the snow
        is clinging. She has on her arm a basket covered with a bit of sacking.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I can't, you know; it's impossible.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The girl says nothing, but looks at him with dark eyes.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Wincing.] Let's see&mdash;I don't know you&mdash;do I?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The girl, speaking in a soft, hoarse voice, with a faint accent of
        reproach: "Mrs. Megan&mdash;you give me this&mdash;-" She holds out a
        dirty visiting card.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Recoiling from the card.] Oh! Did I? Ah! When?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. You 'ad some vi'lets off of me larst spring. You give me 'arf
      a crown.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [A smile tries to visit her face.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Looking stealthily round.] Ah! Well, come in&mdash;just for a
      minute&mdash;it's very cold&mdash;and tell us what it is.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She comes in stolidly, a Sphinx-like figure, with her pretty tragic
        little face.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I don't remember you. [Looking closer.] Yes, I do. Only&mdash;
      you weren't the same-were you?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Dully.] I seen trouble since.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Trouble! Have some tea?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He looks anxiously at the door into the house, then goes quickly to the
        table, and pours out a glass of tea, putting rum into it.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Handing her the tea.] Keeps the cold out! Drink it off!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN drinks it of, chokes a little, and almost immediately seems
        to get a size larger. WELLWYN watches her with his head held on one
        side, and a smile broadening on his face.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Cure for all evils, um?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. It warms you. [She smiles.]
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Smiling back, and catching himself out.] Well! You know, I
      oughtn't.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Conscious of the disruption of his personality, and
      withdrawing into her tragic abyss.] I wouldn't 'a come, but you told me if
      I wanted an 'and&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Gradually losing himself in his own nature.] Let me see&mdash;corner
      of Flight Street, wasn't it?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [With faint eagerness.] Yes, sir, an' I told you about me
      vi'lets&mdash;it was a luvly spring-day.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Beautiful! Beautiful! Birds singing, and the trees, &amp;c.! We
      had quite a talk. You had a baby with you.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes. I got married since then.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! Ah! Yes! [Cheerfully.] And how's the baby?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Turning to stone.] I lost her.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! poor&mdash;- Um!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Impassive.] You said something abaht makin' a picture of me.
      [With faint eagerness.] So I thought I might come, in case you'd
      forgotten.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Looking at, her intently.] Things going badly?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Stripping the sacking off her basket.] I keep 'em covered up,
      but the cold gets to 'em. Thruppence&mdash;that's all I've took.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ho! Tt! Tt! [He looks into the basket.] Christmas, too!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. They're dead.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Drawing in his breath.] Got a good husband?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. He plays cards.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh, Lord! And what are you doing out&mdash;with a cold like that?
      [He taps his chest.]
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. We was sold up this morning&mdash;he's gone off with 'is
      mates. Haven't took enough yet for a night's lodgin'.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Correcting a spasmodic dive into his pockets.] But who buys
      flowers at this time of night?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN looks at him, and faintly smiles.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Rumpling his hair.] Saints above us! Here! Come to the fire!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She follows him to the fire. He shuts the street door.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Are your feet wet? [She nods.] Well, sit down here, and take them
      off. That's right.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She sits on the stool. And after a slow look up at him, which has in it
        a deeper knowledge than belongs of right to her years, begins taking off
        her shoes and stockings. WELLWYN goes to the door into the house, opens
        it, and listens with a sort of stealthy casualness. He returns
        whistling, but not out loud. The girl has finished taking off her
        stockings, and turned her bare toes to the flames. She shuffles them
        back under her skirt.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. How old are you, my child?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Nineteen, come Candlemas.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. And what's your name?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Guinevere.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. What? Welsh?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes&mdash;from Battersea.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. And your husband?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. No. Irish, 'e is. Notting Dale, 'e comes from.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Roman Catholic?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes. My 'usband's an atheist as well.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I see. [Abstractedly.] How jolly! And how old is he&mdash;this
      young man of yours?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. 'E'll be twenty soon.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Babes in the wood! Does he treat you badly?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. No.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Nor drink?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. No. He's not a bad one. Only he gets playin' cards then 'e'll
      fly the kite.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I see. And when he's not flying it, what does he do?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Touching her basket.] Same as me. Other jobs tires 'im.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. That's very nice! [He checks himself.] Well, what am I to do with
      you?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Of course, I could get me night's lodging if I like to do&mdash;the
      same as some of them.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. No! no! Never, my child! Never!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. It's easy that way.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Heavens! But your husband! Um?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [With stoical vindictiveness.] He's after one I know of.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Tt! What a pickle!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I'll 'ave to walk about the streets.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [To himself.] Now how can I?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN looks up and smiles at him, as if she had already discovered
        that he is peculiar.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. You see, the fact is, I mustn't give you anything&mdash;because
      &mdash;well, for one thing I haven't got it. There are other reasons, but
      that's the&mdash;real one. But, now, there's a little room where my models
      dress. I wonder if you could sleep there. Come, and see.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The Girl gets up lingeringly, loth to leave the warmth. She takes up
        her wet stockings.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Shall I put them on again?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. No, no; there's a nice warm pair of slippers. [Seeing the steam
      rising from her.] Why, you're wet all over. Here, wait a little!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He crosses to the door into the house, and after stealthy listening,
        steps through. The Girl, like a cat, steals back to the warmth of the
        fire. WELLWYN returns with a candle, a canary-coloured bath gown, and
        two blankets.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Now then! [He precedes her towards the door of the model's room.]
      Hsssh! [He opens the door and holds up the candle to show her the room.]
      Will it do? There's a couch. You'll find some washing things. Make
      yourself quite at home. See!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The Girl, perfectly dumb, passes through with her basket&mdash;and her
        shoes and stockings. WELLWYN hands her the candle, blankets, and bath
        gown.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Have a good sleep, child! Forget that you're alive! [He closes
      the door, mournfully.] Done it again! [He goes to the table, cuts a large
      slice of cake, knocks on the door, and hands it in.] Chow-chow! [Then, as
      he walks away, he sights the opposite door.] Well&mdash;damn it, what
      could I have done? Not a farthing on me! [He goes to the street door to
      shut it, but first opens it wide to confirm himself in his hospitality.]
      Night like this!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [A sputter of snow is blown in his face. A voice says: "Monsieur,
        pardon!" WELLWYN recoils spasmodically. A figure moves from the
        lamp-post to the doorway. He is seen to be young and to have ragged
        clothes. He speaks again: "You do not remember me, Monsieur? My name is
        Ferrand&mdash;it was in Paris, in the Champs-Elysees&mdash;by the
        fountain.... When you came to the door, Monsieur&mdash;I am not made of
        iron.... Tenez, here is your card I have never lost it." He holds out to
        WELLWYN an old and dirty wing card. As inch by inch he has advanced into
        the doorway, the light from within falls on him, a tall gaunt young
        pagan with fair hair and reddish golden stubble of beard, a long
        ironical nose a little to one side, and large, grey, rather prominent
        eyes. There is a certain grace in his figure and movements; his clothes
        are nearly dropping off him.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Yielding to a pleasant memory.] Ah! yes. By the fountain. I was
      sitting there, and you came and ate a roll, and drank the water.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [With faint eagerness.] My breakfast. I was in poverty&mdash;
      veree bad off. You gave me ten francs. I thought I had a little the right
      [WELLWYN makes a movement of disconcertion] seeing you said that if I came
      to England&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Um! And so you've come?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. It was time that I consolidated my fortunes, Monsieur.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. And you&mdash;have&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He stops embarrassed.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Shrugging his ragged shoulders.] One is not yet Rothschild.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Sympathetically.] No. [Yielding to memory.] We talked
      philosophy.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. I have not yet changed my opinion. We other vagabonds, we are
      exploited by the bourgeois. This is always my idea, Monsieur.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes&mdash;not quite the general view, perhaps! Well&mdash;&mdash;
      [Heartily.] Come in! Very glad to see you again.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Brushing his arms over his eyes.] Pardon, Monsieur&mdash;your
      goodness&mdash;I am a little weak. [He opens his coat, and shows a belt
      drawn very tight over his ragged shirt.] I tighten him one hole for each
      meal, during two days now. That gives you courage.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With cooing sounds, pouring out tea, and adding rum.] Have some
      of this. It'll buck you up. [He watches the young man drink.]
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Becoming a size larger.] Sometimes I think that I will never
      succeed to dominate my life, Monsieur&mdash;though I have no vices, except
      that I guard always the aspiration to achieve success. But I will not roll
      myself under the machine of existence to gain a nothing every day. I must
      find with what to fly a little.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Delicately.] Yes; yes&mdash;I remember, you found it difficult
      to stay long in any particular&mdash;yes.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Proudly.] In one little corner? No&mdash;Monsieur&mdash;never!
      That is not in my character. I must see life.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Quite, quite! Have some cake?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He cuts cake.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. In your country they say you cannot eat the cake and have it. But
      one must always try, Monsieur; one must never be content. [Refusing the
      cake.] 'Grand merci', but for the moment I have no stomach&mdash;I have
      lost my stomach now for two days. If I could smoke, Monsieur! [He makes
      the gesture of smoking.]
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Rather! [Handing his tobacco pouch.] Roll yourself one.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Rapidly rolling a cigarette.] If I had not found you, Monsieur&mdash;I
      would have been a little hole in the river to-night&mdash; I was so
      discouraged. [He inhales and puffs a long luxurious whif of smoke. Very
      bitterly.] Life! [He disperses the puff of smoke with his finger, and
      stares before him.] And to think that in a few minutes HE will be born!
      Monsieur! [He gazes intently at WELLWYN.] The world would reproach you for
      your goodness to me.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Looking uneasily at the door into the house.] You think so? Ah!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Monsieur, if HE himself were on earth now, there would be a
      little heap of gentlemen writing to the journals every day to call Him
      sloppee sentimentalist! And what is veree funny, these gentlemen they
      would all be most strong Christians. [He regards WELLWYN deeply.] But that
      will not trouble you, Monsieur; I saw well from the first that you are no
      Christian. You have so kind a face.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! Indeed!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. You have not enough the Pharisee in your character. You do not
      judge, and you are judged.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He stretches his limbs as if in pain.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Are you in pain?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. I 'ave a little the rheumatism.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Wet through, of course! [Glancing towards the house.] Wait a bit!
      I wonder if you'd like these trousers; they've&mdash;er&mdash;they're not
      quite&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He passes through the door into the house. FERRAND stands at the fire,
        with his limbs spread as it were to embrace it, smoking with
        abandonment. WELLWYN returns stealthily, dressed in a Jaeger
        dressing-gown, and bearing a pair of drawers, his trousers, a pair of
        slippers, and a sweater.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Speaking in a low voice, for the door is still open.] Can you
      make these do for the moment?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. 'Je vous remercie', Monsieur. [Pointing to the screen.] May I
      retire?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes, yes.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [FERRAND goes behind the screen. WELLWYN closes the door into the house,
        then goes to the window to draw the curtains. He suddenly recoils and
        stands petrified with doubt.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Good Lord!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There is the sound of tapping on glass. Against the window-pane is
        pressed the face of a man. WELLWYN motions to him to go away. He does
        not go, but continues tapping. WELLWYN opens the door. There enters a
        square old man, with a red, pendulous jawed, shaking face under a snow
        besprinkled bowler hat. He is holding out a visiting card with tremulous
        hand.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Who's that? Who are you?
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [In a thick, hoarse, shaking voice.] 'Appy to see you, sir; we 'ad
      a talk this morning. Timson&mdash;I give you me name. You invited of me,
      if ye remember.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. It's a little late, really.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Well, ye see, I never expected to 'ave to call on yer. I was
      'itched up all right when I spoke to yer this mornin', but bein'
      Christmas, things 'ave took a turn with me to-day. [He speaks with
      increasing thickness.] I'm reg'lar disgusted&mdash;not got the price of a
      bed abaht me. Thought you wouldn't like me to be delicate&mdash;not at my
      age.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With a mechanical and distracted dive of his hands into his
      pockets.] The fact is, it so happens I haven't a copper on me.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Evidently taking this for professional refusal.] Wouldn't arsk
      you if I could 'elp it. 'Ad to do with 'orses all me life. It's this 'ere
      cold I'm frightened of. I'm afraid I'll go to sleep.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, really, I&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. To be froze to death&mdash;I mean&mdash;it's awkward.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Puzzled and unhappy.] Well&mdash;come in a moment, and let's&mdash;
      think it out. Have some tea!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He pours out the remains of the tea, and finding there is not very
        much, adds rum rather liberally. TIMSON, who walks a little wide at the
        knees, steadying his gait, has followed.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Receiving the drink.] Yer 'ealth. 'Ere's&mdash;soberiety! [He
      applies the drink to his lips with shaking hand. Agreeably surprised.]
      Blimey! Thish yer tea's foreign, ain't it?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Reappearing from behind the screen in his new clothes of which
      the trousers stop too soon.] With a needle, Monsieur, I would soon have
      with what to make face against the world.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Too short! Ah!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He goes to the dais on which stands ANN's workbasket, and takes from it
        a needle and cotton.] [While he is so engaged FERRAND is sizing up old
        TIMSON, as one dog will another. The old man, glass in hand, seems to
        have lapsed into coma.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Indicating TIMSON] Monsieur!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He makes the gesture of one drinking, and shakes his head.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Handing him the needle and cotton.] Um! Afraid so!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They approach TIMSON, who takes no notice.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Gently.] It is an old cabby, is it not, Monsieur? 'Ceux sont
      tous des buveurs'.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Concerned at the old man's stupefaction.] Now, my old friend,
      sit down a moment. [They manoeuvre TIMSON to the settle.] Will you smoke?
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [In a drowsy voice.] Thank 'ee-smoke pipe of 'baccer. Old 'orse&mdash;standin'
      abaht in th' cold.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He relapses into coma.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [With a click of his tongue.] 'Il est parti'.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Doubtfully.] He hasn't really left a horse outside, do you
      think?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Non, non, Monsieur&mdash;no 'orse. He is dreaming. I know very
      well that state of him&mdash;that catches you sometimes. It is the warmth
      sudden on the stomach. He will speak no more sense to-night. At the most,
      drink, and fly a little in his past.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Poor old buffer!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Touching, is it not, Monsieur? There are many brave gents among
      the old cabbies&mdash;they have philosophy&mdash;that comes from 'orses,
      and from sitting still.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Touching TIMSON's shoulder.] Drenched!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. That will do 'im no 'arm, Monsieur-no 'arm at all. He is well wet
      inside, remember&mdash;it is Christmas to-morrow. Put him a rug, if you
      will, he will soon steam.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN takes up ANN's long red cloak, and wraps it round the old man.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Faintly roused.] Tha's right. Put&mdash;the rug on th' old 'orse.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He makes a strange noise, and works his head and tongue.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Alarmed.] What's the matter with him?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. It is nothing, Monsieur; for the moment he thinks 'imself a
      'orse. 'Il joue "cache-cache,"' 'ide and seek, with what you call&mdash;
      'is bitt.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. But what's to be done with him? One can't turn him out in this
      state.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. If you wish to leave him 'ere, Monsieur, have no fear. I charge
      myself with him.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! [Dubiously.] You&mdash;er&mdash;I really don't know, I&mdash;hadn't
      contemplated&mdash;You think you could manage if I&mdash;if I went to bed?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. But certainly, Monsieur.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Still dubiously.] You&mdash;you're sure you've everything you
      want?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Bowing.] 'Mais oui, Monsieur'.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I don't know what I can do by staying.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. There is nothing you can do, Monsieur. Have confidence in me.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well-keep the fire up quietly&mdash;very quietly. You'd better
      take this coat of mine, too. You'll find it precious cold, I expect, about
      three o'clock. [He hands FERRAND his Ulster.]
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Taking it.] I shall sleep in praying for you, Monsieur.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ah! Yes! Thanks! Well-good-night! By the way, I shall be down
      rather early. Have to think of my household a bit, you know.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. 'Tres bien, Monsieur'. I comprehend. One must well be regular in
      this life.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With a start.] Lord! [He looks at the door of the model's room.]
      I'd forgotten&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Can I undertake anything, Monsieur?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. No, no! [He goes to the electric light switch by the outer door.]
      You won't want this, will you?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. 'Merci, Monsieur'.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN switches off the light.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. 'Bon soir, Monsieur'!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. The devil! Er&mdash;good-night!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He hesitates, rumples his hair, and passes rather suddenly away.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [To himself.] Poor pigeon! [Looking long at old TIMSON] 'Espece
      de type anglais!'
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He sits down in the firelight, curls up a foot on his knee, and taking
        out a knife, rips the stitching of a turned-up end of trouser, pinches
        the cloth double, and puts in the preliminary stitch of a new hem&mdash;all
        with the swiftness of one well-accustomed. Then, as if hearing a sound
        behind him, he gets up quickly and slips behind the screen. MRS. MEGAN,
        attracted by the cessation of voices, has opened the door, and is
        creeping from the model's room towards the fire. She has almost reached
        it before she takes in the torpid crimson figure of old TIMSON. She
        halts and puts her hand to her chest&mdash;a queer figure in the
        firelight, garbed in the canary-coloured bath gown and rabbit's-wool
        slippers, her black matted hair straggling down on her neck. Having
        quite digested the fact that the old man is in a sort of stupor, MRS.
        MEGAN goes close to the fire, and sits on the little stool, smiling
        sideways at old TIMSON. FERRAND, coming quietly up behind, examines her
        from above, drooping his long nose as if enquiring with it as to her
        condition in life; then he steps back a yard or two.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Gently.] 'Pardon, Ma'moiselle'.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Springing to her feet.] Oh!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. All right, all right! We are brave gents!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Faintly roused.] 'Old up, there!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Trust in me, Ma'moiselle!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN responds by drawing away.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Gently.] We must be good comrades. This asylum&mdash;it is
      better than a doss-'ouse.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He pushes the stool over towards her, and seats himself. Somewhat
        reassured, MRS. MEGAN again sits down.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. You frightened me.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Unexpectedly-in a drowsy tone.] Purple foreigners!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Pay no attention, Ma'moiselle. He is a philosopher.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Oh! I thought 'e was boozed.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They both look at TIMSON]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. It is the same-veree 'armless.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. What's that he's got on 'im?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. It is a coronation robe. Have no fear, Ma'moiselle. Veree docile
      potentate.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I wouldn't be afraid of him. [Challenging FERRAND.] I'm afraid
      o' you.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. It is because you do not know me, Ma'moiselle. You are wrong, it
      is always the unknown you should love.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I don't like the way you-speaks to me.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Ah! You are a Princess in disguise?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. No fear!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. No? What is it then you do to make face against the necessities
      of life? A living?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Sells flowers.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Rolling his eyes.] It is not a career.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [With a touch of devilry.] You don't know what I do.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Ma'moiselle, whatever you do is charming.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN looks at him, and slowly smiles.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. You're a foreigner.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. It is true.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. What do you do for a livin'?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. I am an interpreter.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. You ain't very busy, are you?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [With dignity.] At present I am resting.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Looking at him and smiling.] How did you and 'im come here?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Ma'moiselle, we would ask you the same question.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. The gentleman let me. 'E's funny.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. 'C'est un ange' [At MRS. MEGAN's blank stare he interprets.] An
      angel!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Me luck's out-that's why I come.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Rising.] Ah! Ma'moiselle! Luck! There is the little God who
      dominates us all. Look at this old! [He points to TIMSON.] He is finished.
      In his day that old would be doing good business. He could afford himself&mdash;[He
      maker a sign of drinking.]&mdash;Then come the motor cars. All goes&mdash;he
      has nothing left, only 'is 'abits of a 'cocher'! Luck!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [With a vague gesture&mdash;drowsily.] Kick the foreign beggars
      out.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. A real Englishman.... And look at me! My father was merchant of
      ostrich feathers in Brussels. If I had been content to go in his business,
      I would 'ave been rich. But I was born to roll&mdash;"rolling stone" to
      voyage is stronger than myself. Luck!... And you, Ma'moiselle, shall I
      tell your fortune? [He looks in her face.] You were born for 'la joie de
      vivre'&mdash;to drink the wines of life. 'Et vous voila'! Luck!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Though she does not in the least understand what he has said, her
        expression changes to a sort of glee.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Yes. You were born loving pleasure. Is it not? You see, you
      cannot say, No. All of us, we have our fates. Give me your hand. [He
      kneels down and takes her hand.] In each of us there is that against which
      we cannot struggle. Yes, yes!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He holds her hand, and turns it over between his own. MRS. MEGAN
        remains stolid, half fascinated, half-reluctant.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Flickering into consciousness.] Be'ave yourselves! Yer crimson
      canary birds!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN would withdraw her hand, but cannot.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Pay no attention, Ma'moiselle. He is a Puritan.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [TIMSON relapses into comatosity, upsetting his glass, which falls with
        a crash.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Let go my hand, please!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Relinquishing it, and staring into the fore gravely.] There is
      one thing I have never done&mdash;'urt a woman&mdash;that is hardly in my
      character. [Then, drawing a little closer, he looks into her face.] Tell
      me, Ma'moiselle, what is it you think of all day long?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I dunno&mdash;lots, I thinks of.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Shall I tell you? [Her eyes remain fixed on his, the strangeness
      of him preventing her from telling him to "get along." He goes on in his
      ironic voice.] It is of the streets&mdash;the lights&mdash; the faces&mdash;it
      is of all which moves, and is warm&mdash;it is of colour&mdash;it is [he
      brings his face quite close to hers] of Love. That is for you what the
      road is for me. That is for you what the rum is for that old&mdash;[He
      jerks his thumb back at TIMSON. Then bending swiftly forward to the girl.]
      See! I kiss you&mdash;Ah!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He draws her forward off the stool. There is a little struggle, then
        she resigns her lips. The little stool, overturned, falls with a
        clatter. They spring up, and move apart. The door opens and ANN enters
        from the house in a blue dressing-gown, with her hair loose, and a
        candle held high above her head. Taking in the strange half-circle round
        the stove, she recoils. Then, standing her ground, calls in a voice
        sharpened by fright: "Daddy&mdash;Daddy!"]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Stirring uneasily, and struggling to his feet.] All right! I'm
      comin'!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Have no fear, Madame!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [In the silence that follows, a clock begins loudly striking twelve. ANN
        remains, as if carved in atone, her eyes fastened on the strangers.
        There is the sound of someone falling downstairs, and WELLWYN appears,
        also holding a candle above his head.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. Look!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes, yes, my dear! It&mdash;it happened.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [With a sort of groan.] Oh! Daddy!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [In the renewed silence, the church clock ceases to chime.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Softly, in his ironic voice.] HE is come, Monsieur! 'Appy
      Christmas! Bon Noel!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There is a sudden chime of bells. The Stage is blotted dark.] Curtain.
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002">
      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
    </p>
    <div style="height: 4em;">
      <br /><br /><br /><br />
    </div>
    <h2>
      ACT II
    </h2>
    <p>
      It is four o'clock in the afternoon of New Year's Day. On the raised dais
      MRS. MEGAN is standing, in her rags; with bare feet and ankles, her dark
      hair as if blown about, her lips parted, holding out a dishevelled bunch
      of violets. Before his easel, WELLWYN is painting her. Behind him, at a
      table between the cupboard and the door to the model's room, TIMSON is
      washing brushes, with the movements of one employed upon relief works. The
      samovar is hissing on the table by the stove, the tea things are set out.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Open your mouth.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN opens her mouth.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [In hat and coat, entering from the house.] Daddy!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN goes to her; and, released from restraint, MRS. MEGAN looks
        round at TIMSON and grimaces.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, my dear?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They speak in low voices.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [Holding out a note.] This note from Canon Bentley. He's going to
      bring her husband here this afternoon. [She looks at MRS. MEGAN.]
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! [He also looks at MRS. MEGAN.]
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. And I met Sir Thomas Hoxton at church this morning, and spoke to him
      about Timson.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Um!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They look at TIMSON. Then ANN goes back to the door, and WELLWYN
        follows her.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [Turning.] I'm going round now, Daddy, to ask Professor Calway what
      we're to do with that Ferrand.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! One each! I wonder if they'll like it.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. They'll have to lump it.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She goes out into the house.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Back at his easel.] You can shut your mouth now.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN shuts her mouth, but opens it immediately to smile.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Spasmodically.] Ah! Now that's what I want. [He dabs furiously
      at the canvas. Then standing back, runs his hands through his hair and
      turns a painter's glance towards the skylight.] Dash! Light's gone! Off
      you get, child&mdash;don't tempt me!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN descends. Passing towards the door of the model's room she
        stops, and stealthily looks at the picture.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Ah! Would yer!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Wheeling round.] Want to have a look? Well&mdash;come on!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He takes her by the arm, and they stand before the canvas. After a
        stolid moment, she giggles.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! You think so?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Who has lost her hoarseness.] It's not like my picture that I
      had on the pier.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. No-it wouldn't be.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Timidly.] If I had an 'at on, I'd look better.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. With feathers?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, you can't! I don't like hats, and I don't like feathers.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN timidly tugs his sleeve. TIMSON, screened as he thinks by
        the picture, has drawn from his bulky pocket a bottle and is taking a
        stealthy swig.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [To MRS. MEGAN, affecting not to notice.] How much do I owe you?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [A little surprised.] You paid me for to-day-all 'cept a
      penny.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well! Here it is. [He gives her a coin.] Go and get your feet on!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. You've give me 'arf a crown.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Cut away now!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN, smiling at the coin, goes towards the model's room. She
        looks back at WELLWYN, as if to draw his eyes to her, but he is gazing
        at the picture; then, catching old TIMSON'S sour glance, she grimaces at
        him, kicking up her feet with a little squeal. But when WELLWYN turns to
        the sound, she is demurely passing through the doorway.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [In his voice of dubious sobriety.] I've finished these yer
      brushes, sir. It's not a man's work. I've been thinkin' if you'd keep an
      'orse, I could give yer satisfaction.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Would the horse, Timson?
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Looking him up and down.] I knows of one that would just suit
      yer. Reel 'orse, you'd like 'im.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Shaking his head.] Afraid not, Timson! Awfully sorry, though, to
      have nothing better for you than this, at present.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Faintly waving the brushes.] Of course, if you can't afford it, I
      don't press you&mdash;it's only that I feel I'm not doing meself justice.
      [Confidentially.] There's just one thing, sir; I can't bear to see a
      gen'leman imposed on. That foreigner&mdash;'e's not the sort to 'ave about
      the place. Talk? Oh! ah! But 'e'll never do any good with 'imself. He's a
      alien.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Terrible misfortune to a fellow, Timson.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Don't you believe it, sir; it's his fault I says to the young lady
      yesterday: Miss Ann, your father's a gen'leman [with a sudden accent of
      hoarse sincerity], and so you are&mdash;I don't mind sayin' it&mdash;but,
      I said, he's too easy-goin'.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Indeed!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Well, see that girl now! [He shakes his head.] I never did believe
      in goin' behind a person's back&mdash;I'm an Englishman&mdash;but
      [lowering his voice] she's a bad hat, sir. Why, look at the street she
      comes from!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! you know it.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Lived there meself larst three years. See the difference a few
      days' corn's made in her. She's that saucy you can't touch 'er head.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Is there any necessity, Timson?
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Artful too. Full o' vice, I call'er. Where's 'er 'usband?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Gravely.] Come, Timson! You wouldn't like her to&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [With dignity, so that the bottle in his pocket is plainly
      visible.] I'm a man as always beared inspection.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With a well-directed smile.] So I see.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Curving himself round the bottle.] It's not for me to say nothing&mdash;but
      I can tell a gen'leman as quick as ever I can tell an 'orse.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Painting.] I find it safest to assume that every man is a
      gentleman, and every woman a lady. Saves no end of self-contempt. Give me
      the little brush.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Handing him the brush&mdash;after a considerable introspective
      pause.] Would yer like me to stay and wash it for yer again? [With great
      resolution.] I will&mdash;I'll do it for you&mdash;never grudged workin'
      for a gen'leman.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With sincerity.] Thank you, Timson&mdash;very good of you, I'm
      sure. [He hands him back the brush.] Just lend us a hand with this.
      [Assisted by TIMSON he pushes back the dais.] Let's see! What do I owe
      you?
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Reluctantly.] It so 'appens, you advanced me to-day's yesterday.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Then I suppose you want to-morrow's?
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Well, I 'ad to spend it, lookin' for a permanent job. When you've
      got to do with 'orses, you can't neglect the publics, or you might as well
      be dead.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Quite so!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. It mounts up in the course o' the year.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. It would. [Passing him a coin.] This is for an exceptional
      purpose&mdash;Timson&mdash;see. Not&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Touching his forehead.] Certainly, sir. I quite understand. I'm
      not that sort, as I think I've proved to yer, comin' here regular day
      after day, all the week. There's one thing, I ought to warn you perhaps&mdash;I
      might 'ave to give this job up any day.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He makes a faint demonstration with the little brush, then puts it,
        absent-mindedly, into his pocket.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Gravely.] I'd never stand in the way of your bettering yourself,
      Timson. And, by the way, my daughter spoke to a friend about you to-day. I
      think something may come of it.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Oh! Oh! She did! Well, it might do me a bit o' good. [He makes for
      the outer door, but stops.] That foreigner! 'E sticks in my gizzard. It's
      not as if there wasn't plenty o' pigeons for 'im to pluck in 'is own
      Gawd-forsaken country. Reg-lar jay, that's what I calls 'im. I could tell
      yer something&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He has opened the door, and suddenly sees that FERRAND himself is
        standing there. Sticking out his lower lip, TIMSON gives a roll of his
        jaw and lurches forth into the street. Owing to a slight miscalculation,
        his face and raised arms are plainly visible through the window, as he
        fortifies himself from his battle against the cold. FERRAND, having
        closed the door, stands with his thumb acting as pointer towards this
        spectacle. He is now remarkably dressed in an artist's squashy green
        hat, a frock coat too small for him, a bright blue tie of knitted silk,
        the grey trousers that were torn, well-worn brown boots, and a tan
        waistcoat.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. What luck to-day?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [With a shrug.] Again I have beaten all London, Monsieur &mdash;not
      one bite. [Contemplating himself.] I think perhaps, that, for the
      bourgeoisie, there is a little too much colour in my costume.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Contemplating him.] Let's see&mdash;I believe I've an old top
      hat somewhere.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Ah! Monsieur, 'merci', but that I could not. It is scarcely in my
      character.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. True!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. I have been to merchants of wine, of tabac, to hotels, to
      Leicester Square. I have been to a Society for spreading Christian
      knowledge&mdash;I thought there I would have a chance perhaps as
      interpreter. 'Toujours meme chose', we regret, we have no situation for
      you&mdash;same thing everywhere. It seems there is nothing doing in this
      town.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I've noticed, there never is.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. I was thinking, Monsieur, that in aviation there might be a
      career for me&mdash;but it seems one must be trained.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Afraid so, Ferrand.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Approaching the picture.] Ah! You are always working at this.
      You will have something of very good there, Monsieur. You wish to fix the
      type of wild savage existing ever amongst our high civilisation. 'C'est
      tres chic ca'! [WELLWYN manifests the quiet delight of an English artist
      actually understood.] In the figures of these good citizens, to whom she
      offers her flower, you would give the idea of all the cage doors open to
      catch and make tame the wild bird, that will surely die within. 'Tres
      gentil'! Believe me, Monsieur, you have there the greatest comedy of life!
      How anxious are the tame birds to do the wild birds good. [His voice
      changes.] For the wild birds it is not funny. There is in some human
      souls, Monsieur, what cannot be made tame.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I believe you, Ferrand.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The face of a young man appears at the window, unseen. Suddenly ANN
        opens the door leading to the house.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. Daddy&mdash;I want you.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [To FERRAND.] Excuse me a minute!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He goes to his daughter, and they pass out. FERRAND remains at the
        picture. MRS. MEGAN dressed in some of ANN's discarded garments, has
        come out of the model's room. She steals up behind FERRAND like a cat,
        reaches an arm up, and curls it round his mouth. He turns, and tries to
        seize her; she disingenuously slips away. He follows. The chase circles
        the tea table. He catches her, lifts her up, swings round with her, so
        that her feet fly out; kisses her bent-back face, and sets her down. She
        stands there smiling. The face at the window darkens.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. La Valse!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He takes her with both hands by the waist, she puts her hands against
        his shoulders to push him of&mdash;and suddenly they are whirling. As
        they whirl, they bob together once or twice, and kiss. Then, with a
        warning motion towards the door, she wrenches herself free, and stops
        beside the picture, trying desperately to appear demure. WELLWYN and ANN
        have entered. The face has vanished.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Pointing to the picture.] One does not comprehend all this,
      Monsieur, without well studying. I was in train to interpret for
      Ma'moiselle the chiaroscuro.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With a queer look.] Don't take it too seriously, Ferrand.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. It is a masterpiece.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. My daughter's just spoken to a friend, Professor Calway. He'd
      like to meet you. Could you come back a little later?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Certainly, Ma'moiselle. That will be an opening for me, I trust.
      [He goes to the street door.]
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Paying no attention to him.] Mrs. Megan, will you too come back in
      half an hour?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. 'Tres bien, Ma'moiselle'! I will see that she does. We will take
      a little promenade together. That will do us good.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He motions towards the door; MRS. MEGAN, all eyes, follows him out.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. Oh! Daddy, they are rotters. Couldn't you see they were having the
      most high jinks?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [At his picture.] I seemed to have noticed something.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Preparing for tea.] They were kissing.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Tt! Tt!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. They're hopeless, all three&mdash;especially her. Wish I hadn't given
      her my clothes now.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Absorbed.] Something of wild-savage.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Thank goodness it's the Vicar's business to see that married people
      live together in his parish.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! [Dubiously.] The Megans are Roman Catholic-Atheists, Ann.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [With heat.] Then they're all the more bound. [WELLWYN gives a sudden
      and alarmed whistle.]
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. What's the matter?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Didn't you say you spoke to Sir Thomas, too. Suppose he comes in
      while the Professor's here. They're cat and dog.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Blankly.] Oh! [As WELLWYN strikes a match.] The samovar is lighted.
      [Taking up the nearly empty decanter of rum and going to the cupboard.]
      It's all right. He won't.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. We'll hope not.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He turns back to his picture.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [At the cupboard.] Daddy!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Hi!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. There were three bottles.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Well! Now there aren't any.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Abstracted.] That'll be Timson.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [With real horror.] But it's awful!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. It is, my dear.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. In seven days. To say nothing of the stealing.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Vexed.] I blame myself-very much. Ought to have kept it locked
      up.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. You ought to keep him locked up!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There is heard a mild but authoritative knock.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Here's the Vicar!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. What are you going to do about the rum?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Opening the door to CANON BERTLEY.] Come in, Vicar! Happy New
      Year!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Same to you! Ah! Ann! I've got into touch with her young husband&mdash;he's
      coming round.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Still a little out of her plate.] Thank Go&mdash;-Moses!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Faintly surprised.] From what I hear he's not really a bad
      youth. Afraid he bets on horses. The great thing, WELLWYN, with those poor
      fellows is to put your finger on the weak spot.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [To herself-gloomily.] That's not difficult. What would you do, Canon
      Bertley, with a man who's been drinking father's rum?
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Remove the temptation, of course.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. He's done that.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Ah! Then&mdash;[WELLWYN and ANN hang on his words] then I should&mdash;er&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Abruptly.] Remove him.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Before I say that, Ann, I must certainly see the individual.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Pointing to the window.] There he is!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [In the failing light TIMSON'S face is indeed to be seen pressed against
        the window pane.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. Daddy, I do wish you'd have thick glass put in. It's so disgusting to
      be spied at! [WELLWYN going quickly to the door, has opened it.] What do
      you want? [TIMSON enters with dignity. He is fuddled.]
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Slowly.] Arskin' yer pardon-thought it me duty to come back-found
      thish yer little brishel on me. [He produces the little paint brush.]
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [In a deadly voice.] Nothing else?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [TIMSON accords her a glassy stare.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Taking the brush hastily.] That'll do, Timson, thanks!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. As I am 'ere, can I do anything for yer?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Yes, you can sweep out that little room. [She points to the model's
      room.] There's a broom in there.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Disagreeably surprised.] Certainly; never make bones about a
      little extra&mdash;never 'ave in all me life. Do it at onsh, I will. [He
      moves across to the model's room at that peculiar broad gait so perfectly
      adjusted to his habits.] You quite understand me &mdash;couldn't bear to
      'ave anything on me that wasn't mine.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He passes out.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. Old fraud!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. "In" and "on." Mark my words, he'll restore the&mdash;bottles.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. But, my dear WELLWYN, that is stealing.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. We all have our discrepancies, Vicar.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Daddy! Discrepancies!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, Ann, my theory is that as regards solids Timson's an
      Individualist, but as regards liquids he's a Socialist... or 'vice versa',
      according to taste.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. No, no, we mustn't joke about it. [Gravely.] I do think he should
      be spoken to.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes, but not by me.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Surely you're the proper person.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Shaking his head.] It was my rum, Vicar. Look so personal.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There sound a number of little tat-tat knocks.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Isn't that the Professor's knock?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [While Ann sits down to make tea, he goes to the door and opens it.
        There, dressed in an ulster, stands a thin, clean-shaved man, with a
        little hollow sucked into either cheek, who, taking off a grey squash
        hat, discloses a majestically bald forehead, which completely dominates
        all that comes below it.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Come in, Professor! So awfully good of you! You know Canon
      Bentley, I think?
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Ah! How d'you do?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Your opinion will be invaluable, Professor.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Tea, Professor Calway?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They have assembled round the tea table.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Thank you; no tea; milk.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Rum?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He pours rum into CALWAY's milk.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CALWAY. A little-thanks! [Turning to ANN.] You were going to show me some
      one you're trying to rescue, or something, I think.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Oh! Yes. He'll be here directly&mdash;simply perfect rotter.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. [Smiling.] Really! Ah! I think you said he was a congenital?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With great interest.] What!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Low.] Daddy! [To CALWAY.] Yes; I&mdash;I think that's what you call
      him.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Not old?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. No; and quite healthy&mdash;a vagabond.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. [Sipping.] I see! Yes. Is it, do you think chronic unemployment
      with a vagrant tendency? Or would it be nearer the mark to say: Vagrancy&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Pure! Oh! pure! Professor. Awfully human.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. [With a smile of knowledge.] Quite! And&mdash;er&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Breaking in.] Before he comes, there's another&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Blandly.] Yes, when you came in, we were discussing what should
      be done with a man who drinks rum&mdash;[CALWAY pauses in the act of
      drinking]&mdash;that doesn't belong to him.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Really! Dipsomaniac?
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Well&mdash;perhaps you could tell us&mdash;drink certainly
      changing thine to mine. The Professor could see him, WELLWYN?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Rising.] Yes, do come and look at him, Professor CALWAY. He's in
      there.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She points towards the model's room. CALWAY smiles deprecatingly.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. No, really; we needn't open the door. You can see him through the
      glass. He's more than half&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Well, I hardly&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Oh! Do! Come on, Professor CALWAY! We must know what to do with him.
      [CALWAY rises.] You can stand on a chair. It's all science.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She draws CALWAY to the model's room, which is lighted by a glass panel
        in the top of the high door. CANON BERTLEY also rises and stands
        watching. WELLWYN hovers, torn between respect for science and dislike
        of espionage.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [Drawing up a chair.] Come on!
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Do you seriously wish me to?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Rather! It's quite safe; he can't see you.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. But he might come out.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [ANN puts her back against the door. CALWAY mounts the chair dubiously,
        and raises his head cautiously, bending it more and more downwards.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. Well?
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. He appears to be&mdash;-sitting on the floor.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes, that's all right!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [BERTLEY covers his lips.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CALWAY. [To ANN&mdash;descending.] By the look of his face, as far as one
      can see it, I should say there was a leaning towards mania. I know the
      treatment.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There come three loud knocks on the door. WELLWYN and ANN exchange a
        glance of consternation.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. Who's that?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. It sounds like Sir Thomas.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Sir Thomas Hoxton?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Nodding.] Awfully sorry, Professor. You see, we&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Not at all. Only, I must decline to be involved in argument with
      him, please.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. He has experience. We might get his opinion, don't you think?
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. On a point of reform? A J.P.!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Deprecating.] My dear Sir&mdash;we needn't take it.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The three knocks resound with extraordinary fury.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. You'd better open the door, Daddy.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN opens the door. SIR, THOMAS HOXTON is disclosed in a fur
        overcoat and top hat. His square, well-coloured face is remarkable for a
        massive jaw, dominating all that comes above it. His Voice is resolute.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      HOXTON. Afraid I didn't make myself heard.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. So good of you to come, Sir Thomas. Canon Bertley! [They greet.]
      Professor CALWAY you know, I think.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. [Ominously.] I do.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They almost greet. An awkward pause.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [Blurting it out.] That old cabman I told you of's been drinking
      father's rum.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. We were just discussing what's to be done with him, Sir Thomas.
      One wants to do the very best, of course. The question of reform is always
      delicate.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. I beg your pardon. There is no question here.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. [Abruptly.] Oh! Is he in the house?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. In there.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. Works for you, eh?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Er&mdash;yes.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. Let's have a look at him!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [An embarrassed pause.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Well&mdash;the fact is, Sir Thomas&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. When last under observation&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. He was sitting on the floor.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I don't want the old fellow to feel he's being made a show of.
      Disgusting to be spied at, Ann.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. You can't, Daddy! He's drunk.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. Never mind, Miss WELLWYN. Hundreds of these fellows before me in
      my time. [At CALWAY.] The only thing is a sharp lesson!
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. I disagree. I've seen the man; what he requires is steady control,
      and the bobbins treatment.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN approaches them with fearful interest.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      HOXTON. Not a bit of it! He wants one for his knob! Brace 'em up! It's the
      only thing.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Personally, I think that if he were spoken to seriously
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. I cannot walk arm in arm with a crab!
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. [Approaching CALWAY.] I beg your pardon?
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. [Moving back a little.] You're moving backwards, Sir Thomas. I've
      told you before, convinced reactionaryism, in these days&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There comes a single knock on the street door.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Looking at his watch.] D'you know, I'm rather afraid this may be
      our young husband, WELLWYN. I told him half-past four.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! Ah! Yes. [Going towards the two reformers.] Shall we go into
      the house, Professor, and settle the question quietly while the Vicar sees
      a young man?
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. [Pale with uncompleted statement, and gravitating insensibly in
      the direction indicated.] The merest sense of continuity&mdash;a simple
      instinct for order&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. [Following.] The only way to get order, sir, is to bring the
      disorderly up with a round turn. [CALWAY turns to him in the doorway.] You
      people without practical experience&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. If you'll listen to me a minute.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. I can show you in a mo&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They vanish through the door.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I was afraid of it.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. The two points of view. Pleasant to see such keenness. I may want
      you, WELLWYN. And Ann perhaps had better not be present.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Relieved.] Quite so! My dear!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [ANN goes reluctantly. WELLWYN opens the street door. The lamp outside
        has just been lighted, and, by its gleam, is seen the figure of RORY
        MEGAN, thin, pale, youthful. ANN turning at the door into the house
        gives him a long, inquisitive look, then goes.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Is that Megan?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. Yus.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Come in.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MEGAN comes in. There follows an awkward silence, during which WELLWYN
        turns up the light, then goes to the tea table and pours out a glass of
        tea and rum.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Kindly.] Now, my boy, how is it that you and your wife are
      living apart like this?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. I dunno.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Well, if you don't, none of us are very likely to, are we?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. That's what I thought, as I was comin' along.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Twinkling.] Have some tea, Megan? [Handing him the glass.] What
      d'you think of her picture? 'Tisn't quite finished.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. [After scrutiny.] I seen her look like it&mdash;once.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Good! When was that?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. [Stoically.] When she 'ad the measles.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He drinks.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Ruminating.] I see&mdash;yes. I quite see feverish!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. My dear WELLWYN, let me&mdash;[To, MEGAN.] Now, I hope you're
      willing to come together again, and to maintain her?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. If she'll maintain me.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Oh! but&mdash;I see, you mean you're in the same line of
      business?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. Yus.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. And lean on each other. Quite so!
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. I leans on 'er mostly&mdash;with 'er looks.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Indeed! Very interesting&mdash;that!
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. Yus. Sometimes she'll take 'arf a crown off of a toff. [He looks at
      WELLWYN.]
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Twinkling.] I apologise to you, Megan.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. [With a faint smile.] I could do with a bit more of it.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Dubiously.] Yes! Yes! Now, my boy, I've heard you bet on horses.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. No, I don't.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Play cards, then? Come! Don't be afraid to acknowledge it.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. When I'm 'ard up&mdash;yus.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. But don't you know that's ruination?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. Depends. Sometimes I wins a lot.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. You know that's not at all what I mean. Come, promise me to give
      it up.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. I dunno abaht that.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Now, there's a good fellow. Make a big effort and throw the habit
      off!
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. Comes over me&mdash;same as it might over you.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Over me! How do you mean, my boy?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. [With a look up.] To tork!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN, turning to the picture, makes a funny little noise.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Maintaining his good humour.] A hit! But you forget, you know,
      to talk's my business. It's not yours to gamble.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. You try sellin' flowers. If that ain't a&mdash;gamble
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. I'm afraid we're wandering a little from the point. Husband and
      wife should be together. You were brought up to that. Your father and
      mother&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. Never was.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Turning from the picture.] The question is, Megan: Will you take
      your wife home? She's a good little soul.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. She never let me know it.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There is a feeble knock on the door.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, now come. Here she is!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He points to the door, and stands regarding MEGAN with his friendly
        smile.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      MEGAN. [With a gleam of responsiveness.] I might, perhaps, to please you,
      sir.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Appropriating the gesture.] Capital, I thought we should get on
      in time.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. Yus.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN opens the door. MRS. MEGAN and FERRAND are revealed. They are
        about to enter, but catching sight of MEGAN, hesitate.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Come in! Come in!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN enters stolidly. FERRAND, following, stands apart with an
        air of extreme detachment. MEGAN, after a quick glance at them both,
        remains unmoved. No one has noticed that the door of the model's room
        has been opened, and that the unsteady figure of old TIMSON is standing
        there.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [A little awkward in the presence of FERRAND&mdash;to the
      MEGANS.] This begins a new chapter. We won't improve the occasion. No
      need.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MEGAN, turning towards his wife, makes her a gesture as if to say:
        "Here! let's get out of this!"]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BENTLEY. Yes, yes, you'll like to get home at once&mdash;I know. [He holds
      up his hand mechanically.]
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. I forbids the banns.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY, [Startled.] Gracious!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Extremely unsteady.] Just cause and impejiment. There 'e stands.
      [He points to FERRAND.] The crimson foreigner! The mockin' jay!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Timson!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. You're a gen'leman&mdash;I'm aweer o' that but I must speak the
      truth&mdash;[he waves his hand] an' shame the devil!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Is this the rum&mdash;?
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Struck by the word.] I'm a teetotaler.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Timson, Timson!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Seein' as there's ladies present, I won't be conspicuous. [Moving
      away, and making for the door, he strikes against the dais, and mounts
      upon it.] But what I do say, is: He's no better than 'er and she's worse.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. This is distressing.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Calmly.] On my honour, Monsieur!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [TIMSON growls.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Now, now, Timson!
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. That's all right. You're a gen'leman, an' I'm a gen'leman, but he
      ain't an' she ain't.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. We shall not believe you.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. No, no; we shall not believe you.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Heavily.] Very well, you doubts my word. Will it make any
      difference, Guv'nor, if I speaks the truth?
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. No, certainly not&mdash;that is&mdash;of course, it will.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. Well, then, I see 'em plainer than I see [pointing at BERTLEY] the
      two of you.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Be quiet, Timson!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Not even her husband believes you.
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. [Suddenly.] Don't I!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Come, Megan, you can see the old fellow's in Paradise.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Do you credit such a&mdash;such an object?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He points at TIMSON, who seems falling asleep.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      MEGAN. Naow!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Unseen by anybody, ANN has returned.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Well, then, my boy?
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. I seen 'em meself.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Gracious! But just now you were will&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      MEGAN. [Sardonically.] There wasn't nothing against me honour, then. Now
      you've took it away between you, cumin' aht with it like this. I don't
      want no more of 'er, and I'll want a good deal more of 'im; as 'e'll soon
      find.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He jerks his chin at FERRAND, turns slowly on his heel, and goes out
        into the street.] [There follows a profound silence.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. What did I say, Daddy? Utter! All three.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Suddenly alive to her presence, they all turn.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Waking up and looking round him.] Well, p'raps I'd better go.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Assisted by WELLWYN he lurches gingerly off the dais towards the door,
        which WELLWYN holds open for him.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Mechanically.] Where to, sir?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Receiving no answer he passes out, touching his hat; and the door is
        closed.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ann!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [ANN goes back whence she came.] [BERTLEY, steadily regarding MRS.
        MEGAN, who has put her arm up in front of her face, beckons to FERRAND,
        and the young man comes gravely forward.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Young people, this is very dreadful. [MRS. MEGAN lowers her arm a
      little, and looks at him over it.] Very sad!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Dropping her arm.] Megan's no better than what I am.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Come, come! Here's your home broken up! [MRS. MEGAN Smiles.
      Shaking his head gravely.] Surely-surely-you mustn't smile. [MRS. MEGAN
      becomes tragic.] That's better. Now, what is to be done?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Believe me, Monsieur, I greatly regret.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. I'm glad to hear it.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. If I had foreseen this disaster.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Is that your only reason for regret?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [With a little bow.] Any reason that you wish, Monsieur. I will
      do my possible.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I could get an unfurnished room if [she slides her eyes round
      at WELLWYN] I 'ad the money to furnish it.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. But suppose I can induce your husband to forgive you, and take
      you back?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Shaking her head.] 'E'd 'it me.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. I said to forgive.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. That wouldn't make no difference. [With a flash at BERTLEY.]
      An' I ain't forgiven him!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. That is sinful.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I'm a Catholic.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. My good child, what difference does that make?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Monsieur, if I might interpret for her.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [BERTLEY silences him with a gesture.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Sliding her eyes towards WELLWYN.] If I 'ad the money to buy
      some fresh stock.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Yes; yes; never mind the money. What I want to find in you both,
      is repentance.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [With a flash up at him.] I can't get me livin' off of
      repentin'.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Now, now! Never say what you know to be wrong.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Monsieur, her soul is very simple.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Severely.] I do not know, sir, that we shall get any great
      assistance from your views. In fact, one thing is clear to me, she must
      discontinue your acquaintanceship at once.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Certainly, Monsieur. We have no serious intentions.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. All the more shame to you, then!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Monsieur, I see perfectly your point of view. It is very natural.
      [He bows and is silent.]
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I don't want'im hurt'cos o' me. Megan'll get his mates to belt
      him&mdash;bein' foreign like he is.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Yes, never mind that. It's you I'm thinking of.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I'd sooner they'd hit me.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Suddenly.] Well said, my child!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. 'Twasn't his fault.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Without irony&mdash;to WELLWYN.] I cannot accept that Monsieur.
      The blame&mdash;it is all mine.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Entering suddenly from the house.] Daddy, they're having an awful&mdash;&mdash;!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The voices of PROFESSOR CALWAY and SIR THOMAS HOXTON are distinctly
        heard.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CALWAY. The question is a much wider one, Sir Thomas.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. As wide as you like, you'll never&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN pushes ANN back into the house and closes the door behind her.
        The voices are still faintly heard arguing on the threshold.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Let me go in here a minute, Wellyn. I must finish speaking to
      her. [He motions MRS. MEGAN towards the model's room.] We can't leave the
      matter thus.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Suavely.] Do you desire my company, Monsieur?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [BERTLEY, with a prohibitive gesture of his hand, shepherds the
        reluctant MRS. MEGAN into the model's room.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Sorrowfully.] You shouldn't have done this, Ferrand. It wasn't
      the square thing.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [With dignity.] Monsieur, I feel that I am in the wrong. It was
      stronger than me.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [As he speaks, SIR THOMAS HOXTON and PROFESSOR CALWAY enter from the
        house. In the dim light, and the full cry of argument, they do not
        notice the figures at the fire. SIR THOMAS HOXTON leads towards the
        street door.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      HOXTON. No, Sir, I repeat, if the country once commits itself to your
      views of reform, it's as good as doomed.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. I seem to have heard that before, Sir Thomas. And let me say at
      once that your hitty-missy cart-load of bricks regime&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. Is a deuced sight better, sir, than your grand-motherly methods.
      What the old fellow wants is a shock! With all this socialistic
      molly-coddling, you're losing sight of the individual.
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. [Swiftly.] You, sir, with your "devil take the hindmost," have
      never even seen him.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [SIR THOMAS HOXTON, throwing back a gesture of disgust, steps out into
        the night, and falls heavily PROFESSOR CALWAY, hastening to his rescue,
        falls more heavily still.] [TIMSON, momentarily roused from slumber on
        the doorstep, sits up.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      HOXTON. [Struggling to his knees.] Damnation!
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. [Sitting.] How simultaneous!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN and FERRAND approach hastily.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Pointing to TIMSON.] Monsieur, it was true, it seems. They had
      lost sight of the individual.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [A Policeman has appeared under the street lamp. He picks up HOXTON'S
        hat.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. Anything wrong, sir?
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. [Recovering his feet.] Wrong? Great Scott! Constable! Why do you
      let things lie about in the street like this? Look here, Wellyn!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They all scrutinize TIMSON.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. It's only the old fellow whose reform you were discussing.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. How did he come here?
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. Drunk, sir. [Ascertaining TIMSON to be in the street.] Just off
      the premises, by good luck. Come along, father.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Assisted to his feet-drowsily.] Cert'nly, by no means; take my
      arm.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They move from the doorway. HOXTON and CALWAY re-enter, and go towards
        the fire.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [Entering from the house.] What's happened?
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Might we have a brush?
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. [Testily.] Let it dry!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He moves to the fire and stands before it. PROFESSOR CALWAY following
        stands a little behind him. ANN returning begins to brush the
        PROFESSOR's sleeve.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Turning from the door, where he has stood looking after the
      receding TIMSON.] Poor old Timson!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Softly.] Must be philosopher, Monsieur! They will but run him in
      a little.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [From the model's room MRS. MEGAN has come out, shepherded by CANON
        BERTLEY.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Let's see, your Christian name is&mdash;&mdash;.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Guinevere.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Oh! Ah! Ah! Ann, take Gui&mdash;take our little friend into the
      study a minute: I am going to put her into service. We shall make a new
      woman of her, yet.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Handing CANON BERTLEY the brush, and turning to MRS. MEGAN.] Come
      on!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She leads into the house, and MRS. MEGAN follows Stolidly.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Brushing CALWAY'S back.] Have you fallen?
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. Yes.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Dear me! How was that?
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. That old ruffian drunk on the doorstep. Hope they'll give him a
      sharp dose! These rag-tags!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He looks round, and his angry eyes light by chance on FERRAND.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [With his eyes on HOXTON&mdash;softly.] Monsieur, something tells
      me it is time I took the road again.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Fumbling out a sovereign.] Take this, then!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Refusing the coin.] Non, Monsieur. To abuse 'ospitality is not
      in my character.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. We must not despair of anyone.
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. Who talked of despairing? Treat him, as I say, and you'll see!
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. The interest of the State&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      HOXTON. The interest of the individual citizen sir&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Come! A little of both, a little of both!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They resume their brushing.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. You are now debarrassed of us three, Monsieur. I leave you
      instead&mdash;these sirs. [He points.] 'Au revoir, Monsieur'! [Motioning
      towards the fire.] 'Appy New Year!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He slips quietly out. WELLWYN, turning, contemplates the three
        reformers. They are all now brushing away, scratching each other's
        backs, and gravely hissing. As he approaches them, they speak with a
        certain unanimity.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      HOXTON. My theory&mdash;&mdash;!
    </p>
    <p>
      CALWAY. My theory&mdash;&mdash;!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. My theory&mdash;&mdash;!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They stop surprised. WELLWYN makes a gesture of discomfort, as they
        speak again with still more unanimity.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      HOXTON. My&mdash;&mdash;! CALWAY. My&mdash;&mdash;! BERTLEY. My&mdash;&mdash;!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They stop in greater surprise. The stage is blotted dark.] Curtain.
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003">
      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
    </p>
    <div style="height: 4em;">
      <br /><br /><br /><br />
    </div>
    <h2>
      ACT III
    </h2>
    <p>
      It is the first of April&mdash;a white spring day of gleams and driving
      showers. The street door of WELLWYN's studio stands wide open, and, past
      it, in the street, the wind is whirling bits of straw and paper bags.
      Through the door can be seen the butt end of a stationary furniture van
      with its flap let down. To this van three humble-men in shirt sleeves and
      aprons, are carrying out the contents of the studio. The hissing samovar,
      the tea-pot, the sugar, and the nearly empty decanter of rum stand on the
      low round table in the fast-being-gutted room. WELLWYN in his ulster and
      soft hat, is squatting on the little stool in front of the blazing fire,
      staring into it, and smoking a hand-made cigarette. He has a moulting air.
      Behind him the humble-men pass, embracing busts and other articles of
      vertu.
    </p>
    <p>
      CHIEF H'MAN. [Stopping, and standing in the attitude of expectation.]
      We've about pinched this little lot, sir. Shall we take the&mdash;reservoir?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He indicates the samovar.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ah! [Abstractedly feeling in his pockets, and finding coins.]
      Thanks&mdash;thanks&mdash;heavy work, I'm afraid.
    </p>
    <p>
      H'MAN. [Receiving the coins&mdash;a little surprised and a good deal
      pleased.] Thank'ee, sir. Much obliged, I'm sure. We'll 'ave to come back
      for this. [He gives the dais a vigorous push with his foot.] Not a
      fixture, as I understand. Perhaps you'd like us to leave these 'ere for a
      bit. [He indicates the tea things.]
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ah! do.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The humble-men go out. There is the sound of horses being started, and
        the butt end of the van disappears. WELLWYN stays on his stool, smoking
        and brooding over the fare. The open doorway is darkened by a figure.
        CANON BERTLEY is standing there.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. WELLWYN! [WELLWYN turns and rises.] It's ages since I saw you. No
      idea you were moving. This is very dreadful.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes, Ann found this&mdash;too exposed. That tall house in Flight
      Street&mdash;we're going there. Seventh floor.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Lift?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN shakes his head.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Dear me! No lift? Fine view, no doubt. [WELLWYN nods.] You'll be
      greatly missed.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. So Ann thinks. Vicar, what's become of that little flower-seller
      I was painting at Christmas? You took her into service.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Not we&mdash;exactly! Some dear friends of ours. Painful subject!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh!
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Yes. She got the footman into trouble.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Did she, now?
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Disappointing. I consulted with CALWAY, and he advised me to try
      a certain institution. We got her safely in&mdash;excellent place; but,
      d'you know, she broke out three weeks ago. And since&mdash; I've heard [he
      holds his hands up] hopeless, I'm afraid&mdash;quite!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I thought I saw her last night. You can't tell me her address, I
      suppose?
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Shaking his head.] The husband too has quite passed out of my
      ken. He betted on horses, you remember. I'm sometimes tempted to believe
      there's nothing for some of these poor folk but to pray for death.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [ANN has entered from the house. Her hair hangs from under a knitted
        cap. She wears a white wool jersey, and a loose silk scarf.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Ah! Ann. I was telling your father of that poor little Mrs.
      Megan.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Is she dead?
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Worse I fear. By the way&mdash;what became of her accomplice?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. We haven't seen him since. [She looks searchingly at WELLWYN.] At
      least&mdash;have you&mdash;Daddy?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Rather hurt.] No, my dear; I have not.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. And the&mdash;old gentleman who drank the rum?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. He got fourteen days. It was the fifth time.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Dear me!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. When he came out he got more drunk than ever. Rather a score for
      Professor Calway, wasn't it?
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. I remember. He and Sir Thomas took a kindly interest in the old
      fellow.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Yes, they fell over him. The Professor got him into an Institution.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Indeed!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. He was perfectly sober all the time he was there.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. My dear, they only allow them milk.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Well, anyway, he was reformed.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ye-yes!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Terribly.] Daddy! You've been seeing him!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With dignity.] My dear, I have not.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. How do you know, then?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Came across Sir Thomas on the Embankment yesterday; told me old
      Timso&mdash;had been had up again for sitting down in front of a brewer's
      dray.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Why?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, you see, as soon as he came out of the what d'you call 'em,
      he got drunk for a week, and it left him in low spirits.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. Do you mean he deliberately sat down, with the intention&mdash;of&mdash;er?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Said he was tired of life, but they didn't believe him.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. Rather a score for Sir Thomas! I suppose he'd told the Professor?
      What did he say?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, the Professor said [with a quick glance at BERTLEY] he felt
      there was nothing for some of these poor devils but a lethal chamber.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. [Shocked.] Did he really!
    </p>
    <p>
      [He has not yet caught WELLWYN' s glance.]
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. And Sir Thomas agreed. Historic occasion. And you, Vicar H'm!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [BERTLEY winces.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [To herself.] Well, there isn't.
    </p>
    <p>
      BERTLEY. And yet! Some good in the old fellow, no doubt, if one could put
      one's finger on it. [Preparing to go.] You'll let us know, then, when
      you're settled. What was the address? [WELLWYN takes out and hands him a
      card.] Ah! yes. Good-bye, Ann. Good-bye, Wellyn. [The wind blows his hat
      along the street.] What a wind! [He goes, pursuing.]
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Who has eyed the card askance.] Daddy, have you told those other two
      where we're going?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Which other two, my dear?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. The Professor and Sir Thomas.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well, Ann, naturally I&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Jumping on to the dais with disgust.] Oh, dear! When I'm trying to
      get you away from all this atmosphere. I don't so much mind the Vicar
      knowing, because he's got a weak heart&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She jumps off again. ]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [To himself.] Seventh floor! I felt there was something.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Preparing to go.] I'm going round now. But you must stay here till
      the van comes back. And don't forget you tipped the men after the first
      load.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! Yes, yes. [Uneasily.] Good sorts they look, those fellows!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Scrutinising him.] What have you done?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Nothing, my dear, really&mdash;&mdash;!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. What?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I&mdash;I rather think I may have tipped them twice.
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Drily.] Daddy! If it is the first of April, it's not necessary to
      make a fool of oneself. That's the last time you ever do these ridiculous
      things. [WELLWYN eyes her askance.] I'm going to see that you spend your
      money on yourself. You needn't look at me like that! I mean to. As soon as
      I've got you away from here, and all&mdash;these&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Don't rub it in, Ann!
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Giving him a sudden hug&mdash;then going to the door&mdash;with a
      sort of triumph.] Deeds, not words, Daddy!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She goes out, and the wind catching her scarf blows it out beneath her
        firm young chin. WELLWYN returning to the fire, stands brooding, and
        gazing at his extinct cigarette.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [To himself.] Bad lot&mdash;low type! No method! No theory!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [In the open doorway appear FERRAND and MRS. MEGAN. They stand, unseen,
        looking at him. FERRAND is more ragged, if possible, than on Christmas
        Eve. His chin and cheeks are clothed in a reddish golden beard. MRS.
        MEGAN's dress is not so woe-begone, but her face is white, her eyes
        dark-circled. They whisper. She slips back into the shadow of the
        doorway. WELLWYN turns at the sound, and stares at FERRAND in
        amazement.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Advancing.] Enchanted to see you, Monsieur. [He looks round the
      empty room.] You are leaving?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Nodding&mdash;then taking the young man's hand.] How goes it?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Displaying himself, simply.] As you see, Monsieur. I have done
      of my best. It still flies from me.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Sadly&mdash;as if against his will.] Ferrand, it will always
      fly.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The young foreigner shivers suddenly from head to foot; then controls
        himself with a great effort.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Don't say that, Monsieur! It is too much the echo of my heart.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Forgive me! I didn't mean to pain you.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Drawing nearer the fire.] That old cabby, Monsieur, you remember&mdash;they
      tell me, he nearly succeeded to gain happiness the other day.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN nods.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. And those Sirs, so interested in him, with their theories? He has
      worn them out? [WELLWYN nods.] That goes without saying. And now they wish
      for him the lethal chamber.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Startled.] How did you know that?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [There is silence.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Staring into the fire.] Monsieur, while I was on the road this
      time I fell ill of a fever. It seemed to me in my illness that I saw the
      truth&mdash;how I was wasting in this world&mdash;I would never be good
      for any one&mdash;nor any one for me&mdash;all would go by, and I never of
      it&mdash;fame, and fortune, and peace, even the necessities of life, ever
      mocking me.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He draws closer to the fire, spreading his fingers to the flame. And
        while he is speaking, through the doorway MRS. MEGAN creeps in to
        listen.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Speaking on into the fire.] And I saw, Monsieur, so plain, that
      I should be vagabond all my days, and my days short, I dying in the end
      the death of a dog. I saw it all in my fever&mdash; clear as that flame&mdash;there
      was nothing for us others, but the herb of death. [WELLWYN takes his arm
      and presses it.] And so, Monsieur, I wished to die. I told no one of my
      fever. I lay out on the ground&mdash;it was verree cold. But they would
      not let me die on the roads of their parishes&mdash;they took me to an
      Institution, Monsieur, I looked in their eyes while I lay there, and I saw
      more clear than the blue heaven that they thought it best that I should
      die, although they would not let me. Then Monsieur, naturally my spirit
      rose, and I said: "So much the worse for you. I will live a little more."
      One is made like that! Life is sweet, Monsieur.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes, Ferrand; Life is sweet.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. That little girl you had here, Monsieur [WELLWYN nods.] in her
      too there is something of wild-savage. She must have joy of life. I have
      seen her since I came back. She has embraced the life of joy. It is not
      quite the same thing. [He lowers his voice.] She is lost, Monsieur, as a
      stone that sinks in water. I can see, if she cannot. [As WELLWYN makes a
      movement of distress.] Oh! I am not to blame for that, Monsieur. It had
      well begun before I knew her.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Yes, yes&mdash;I was afraid of it, at the time.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN turns silently, and slips away.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FEERRAND. I do my best for her, Monsieur, but look at me! Besides, I am
      not good for her&mdash;it is not good for simple souls to be with those
      who see things clear. For the great part of mankind, to see anything&mdash;is
      fatal.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Even for you, it seems.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. No, Monsieur. To be so near to death has done me good; I shall
      not lack courage any more till the wind blows on my grave. Since I saw
      you, Monsieur, I have been in three Institutions. They are palaces. One
      may eat upon the floor&mdash;though it is true&mdash;for Kings&mdash;they
      eat too much of skilly there. One little thing they lack&mdash;those
      palaces. It is understanding of the 'uman heart. In them tame birds pluck
      wild birds naked.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. They mean well.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Ah! Monsieur, I am loafer, waster&mdash;what you like&mdash;for
      all that [bitterly] poverty is my only crime. If I were rich, should I not
      be simply veree original, 'ighly respected, with soul above commerce,
      travelling to see the world? And that young girl, would she not be "that
      charming ladee," "veree chic, you know!" And the old Tims&mdash;good
      old-fashioned gentleman&mdash;drinking his liquor well. Eh! bien&mdash;what
      are we now? Dark beasts, despised by all. That is life, Monsieur. [He
      stares into the fire.]
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. We're our own enemies, Ferrand. I can afford it&mdash;you can't.
      Quite true!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Earnestly.] Monsieur, do you know this? You are the sole being
      that can do us good&mdash;we hopeless ones.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Shaking his head.] Not a bit of it; I'm hopeless too.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Eagerly.] Monsieur, it is just that. You understand. When we are
      with you we feel something&mdash;here&mdash;[he touches his heart.] If I
      had one prayer to make, it would be, Good God, give me to understand!
      Those sirs, with their theories, they can clean our skins and chain our
      'abits&mdash;that soothes for them the aesthetic sense; it gives them too
      their good little importance. But our spirits they cannot touch, for they
      nevare understand. Without that, Monsieur, all is dry as a parched skin of
      orange.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Don't be so bitter. Think of all the work they do!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Monsieur, of their industry I say nothing. They do a good work
      while they attend with their theories to the sick and the tame old, and
      the good unfortunate deserving. Above all to the little children. But,
      Monsieur, when all is done, there are always us hopeless ones. What can
      they do with me, Monsieur, with that girl, or with that old man? Ah!
      Monsieur, we, too, 'ave our qualities, we others&mdash;it wants you
      courage to undertake a career like mine, or like that young girl's. We
      wild ones&mdash;we know a thousand times more of life than ever will those
      sirs. They waste their time trying to make rooks white. Be kind to us if
      you will, or let us alone like Mees Ann, but do not try to change our
      skins. Leave us to live, or leave us to die when we like in the free air.
      If you do not wish of us, you have but to shut your pockets and&mdash;your
      doors&mdash;we shall die the faster.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With agitation.] But that, you know&mdash;we can't do&mdash;now
      can we?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. If you cannot, how is it our fault? The harm we do to others&mdash;is
      it so much? If I am criminal, dangerous&mdash;shut me up! I would not pity
      myself&mdash;nevare. But we in whom something moves&mdash; like that
      flame, Monsieur, that cannot keep still&mdash;we others&mdash;we are not
      many&mdash;that must have motion in our lives, do not let them make us
      prisoners, with their theories, because we are not like them&mdash;it is
      life itself they would enclose! [He draws up his tattered figure, then
      bending over the fire again.] I ask your pardon; I am talking. If I could
      smoke, Monsieur!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN hands him a tobacco pouch; and he rolls a cigarette with his
        yellow-Stained fingers.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. The good God made me so that I would rather walk a whole month of
      nights, hungry, with the stars, than sit one single day making round
      business on an office stool! It is not to my advantage. I cannot help it
      that I am a vagabond. What would you have? It is stronger than me. [He
      looks suddenly at WELLWYN.] Monsieur, I say to you things I have never
      said.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Quietly.] Go on, go on. [There is silence.]
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Suddenly.] Monsieur! Are you really English? The English are so
      civilised.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. And am I not?
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. You treat me like a brother.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN has turned towards the street door at a sound of feet, and the
        clamour of voices.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [From the street.] Take her in 'ere. I knows 'im.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Through the open doorway come a POLICE CONSTABLE and a LOAFER, bearing
        between them the limp white faced form of MRS. MEGAN, hatless and with
        drowned hair, enveloped in the policeman's waterproof. Some curious
        persons bring up the rear, jostling in the doorway, among whom is TIMSON
        carrying in his hands the policeman's dripping waterproof leg pieces.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Starting forward.] Monsieur, it is that little girl!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. What's happened? Constable! What's happened!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The CONSTABLE and LOAFER have laid the body down on the dais; with
        WELLWYN and FERRAND they stand bending over her.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. 'Tempted sooicide, sir; but she hadn't been in the water 'arf a
      minute when I got hold of her. [He bends lower.] Can't understand her
      collapsin' like this.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Feeling her heart.] I don't feel anything.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [In a voice sharpened by emotion.] Let me try, Monsieur.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Touching his arm.] You keep off, my lad.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. No, constable&mdash;let him. He's her friend.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Releasing FERRAND&mdash;to the LOAFER.] Here you! Cut off for
      a doctor-sharp now! [He pushes back the curious persons.] Now then, stand
      away there, please&mdash;we can't have you round the body. Keep back&mdash;Clear
      out, now!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He slowly moves them back, and at last shepherds them through the door
        and shuts it on them, TIMSON being last.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. The rum!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN fetches the decanter. With the little there is left FERRAND
        chafes the girl's hands and forehead, and pours some between her lips.
        But there is no response from the inert body.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Her soul is still away, Monsieur!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN, seizing the decanter, pours into it tea and boiling water.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. It's never drownin', sir&mdash;her head was hardly under; I was
      on to her like knife.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Rubbing her feet.] She has not yet her philosophy, Monsieur; at
      the beginning they often try. If she is dead! [In a voice of awed
      rapture.] What fortune!
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [With puzzled sadness.] True enough, sir&mdash;that! We'd just
      begun to know 'er. If she 'as been taken&mdash;her best friends couldn't
      wish 'er better.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Applying the decanter to her dips.] Poor little thing! I'll try
      this hot tea.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Whispering.] 'La mort&mdash;le grand ami!'
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Look! Look at her! She's coming round!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [A faint tremor passes over MRS. MEGAN's body. He again applies the hot
        drink to her mouth. She stirs and gulps.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [With intense relief.] That's brave! Good lass! She'll pick up
      now, sir.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Then, seeing that TIMSON and the curious persons have again opened the
        door, he drives them out, and stands with his back against it. MRS.
        MEGAN comes to herself.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Sitting on the dais and supporting her&mdash;as if to a child.]
      There you are, my dear. There, there&mdash;better now! That's right. Drink
      a little more of this tea.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN drinks from the decanter.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Rising.] Bring her to the fire, Monsieur.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They take her to the fire and seat her on the little stool. From the
        moment of her restored animation FERRAND has resumed his air of cynical
        detachment, and now stands apart with arms folded, watching.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Feeling better, my child?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. That's good. That's good. Now, how was it? Um?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I dunno. [She shivers.] I was standin' here just now when you
      was talkin', and when I heard 'im, it cam' over me to do it&mdash;like.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ah, yes I know.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I didn't seem no good to meself nor any one. But when I got in
      the water, I didn't want to any more. It was cold in there.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Have you been having such a bad time of it?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes. And listenin' to him upset me. [She signs with her head
      at FERRAND.] I feel better now I've been in the water. [She smiles and
      shivers.]
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. There, there! Shivery? Like to walk up and down a little?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They begin walking together up and down.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Beastly when your head goes under?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes. It frightened me. I thought I wouldn't come up again.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. I know&mdash;sort of world without end, wasn't it? What did you
      think of, um?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I wished I 'adn't jumped&mdash;an' I thought of my baby&mdash;
      that died&mdash;and&mdash;[in a rather surprised voice] and I thought of
      d-dancin'.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Her mouth quivers, her face puckers, she gives a choke and a little
        sob.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Stopping and stroking her.] There, there&mdash;there!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [For a moment her face is buried in his sleeve, then she recovers
        herself.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Then 'e got hold o' me, an' pulled me out.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ah! what a comfort&mdash;um?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes. The water got into me mouth.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [They walk again.] I wouldn't have gone to do it but for him. [She looks
        towards FERRAND.] His talk made me feel all funny, as if people wanted
        me to.
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. My dear child! Don't think such things! As if anyone would&mdash;&mdash;!
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Stolidly.] I thought they did. They used to look at me so
      sometimes, where I was before I ran away&mdash;I couldn't stop there, you
      know.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Too cooped-up?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes. No life at all, it wasn't&mdash;not after sellin'
      flowers, I'd rather be doin' what I am.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Ah! Well-it's all over, now! How d'you feel&mdash;eh? Better?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes. I feels all right now.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She sits up again on the little stool before the fire.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. No shivers, and no aches; quite comfy?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. Yes.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. That's a blessing. All well, now, Constable&mdash;thank you!
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Who has remained discreetly apart at the door-cordially.]
      First rate, sir! That's capital! [He approaches and scrutinises MRS.
      MEGAN.] Right as rain, eh, my girl?
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Shrinking a little.] Yes.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. That's fine. Then I think perhaps, for 'er sake, sir, the
      sooner we move on and get her a change o' clothin', the better.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! don't bother about that&mdash;I'll send round for my daughter&mdash;we'll
      manage for her here.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. Very kind of you, I'm sure, sir. But [with embarrassment] she
      seems all right. She'll get every attention at the station.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. But I assure you, we don't mind at all; we'll take the greatest
      care of her.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Still more embarrassed.] Well, sir, of course, I'm thinkin' of&mdash;I'm
      afraid I can't depart from the usual course.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Sharply.] What! But-oh! No! No! That'll be all right, Constable!
      That'll be all right! I assure you.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [With more decision.] I'll have to charge her, sir.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Good God! You don't mean to say the poor little thing has got to
      be&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Consulting with him.] Well, sir, we can't get over the facts,
      can we? There it is! You know what sooicide amounts to&mdash; it's an
      awkward job.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Calming himself with an effort.] But look here, Constable, as a
      reasonable man&mdash;This poor wretched little girl&mdash;you know what
      that life means better than anyone! Why! It's to her credit to try and
      jump out of it!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The CONSTABLE shakes his head.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. You said yourself her best friends couldn't wish her better!
      [Dropping his voice still more.] Everybody feels it! The Vicar was here a
      few minutes ago saying the very same thing&mdash;the Vicar, Constable!
      [The CONSTABLE shakes his head.] Ah! now, look here, I know something of
      her. Nothing can be done with her. We all admit it. Don't you see? Well,
      then hang it&mdash;you needn't go and make fools of us all by&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Monsieur, it is the first of April.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [With a sharp glance at him.] Can't neglect me duty, sir;
      that's impossible.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Look here! She&mdash;slipped. She's been telling me. Come,
      Constable, there's a good fellow. May be the making of her, this.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. I quite appreciate your good 'eart, sir, an' you make it very
      'ard for me&mdash;but, come now! I put it to you as a gentleman, would you
      go back on yer duty if you was me?
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [WELLWYN raises his hat, and plunges his fingers through and through his
        hair.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Well! God in heaven! Of all the d&mdash;-d topsy&mdash;turvy&mdash;!
      Not a soul in the world wants her alive&mdash;and now she's to be
      prosecuted for trying to be where everyone wishes her.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. Come, sir, come! Be a man!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Throughout all this MRS. MEGAN has sat stolidly before the fire, but as
        FERRAND suddenly steps forward she looks up at him.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. Do not grieve, Monsieur! This will give her courage. There is
      nothing that gives more courage than to see the irony of things. [He
      touches MRS. MEGAN'S shoulder.] Go, my child; it will do you good.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [MRS. MEGAN rises, and looks at him dazedly.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Coming forward, and taking her by the hand.] That's my good
      lass. Come along! We won't hurt you.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. I don't want to go. They'll stare at me.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Comforting.] Not they! I'll see to that.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Very upset.] Take her in a cab, Constable, if you must &mdash;for
      God's sake! [He pulls out a shilling.] Here!
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Taking the shilling.] I will, sir, certainly. Don't think I
      want to&mdash;&mdash;
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. No, no, I know. You're a good sort.
    </p>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Comfortable.] Don't you take on, sir. It's her first try; they
      won't be hard on 'er. Like as not only bind 'er over in her own recogs.
      not to do it again. Come, my dear.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Trying to free herself from the policeman's cloak.] I want to
      take this off. It looks so funny.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [As she speaks the door is opened by ANN; behind whom is dimly seen the
        form of old TIMSON, still heading the curious persons.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [Looking from one to the other in amazement.] What is it? What's
      happened? Daddy!
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Out of the silence.] It is nothing, Ma'moiselle! She has failed
      to drown herself. They run her in a little.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Lend her your jacket, my dear; she'll catch her death.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [ANN, feeling MRS. MEGAN's arm, strips of her jacket, and helps her into
        it without a word.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CONSTABLE. [Donning his cloak.] Thank you. Miss&mdash;very good of you,
      I'm sure.
    </p>
    <p>
      MRS. MEGAN. [Mazed.] It's warm!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [She gives them all a last half-smiling look, and Passes with the
        CONSTABLE through the doorway.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      FERRAND. That makes the third of us, Monsieur. We are not in luck. To wish
      us dead, it seems, is easier than to let us die.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He looks at ANN, who is standing with her eyes fixed on her father.
        WELLWYN has taken from his pocket a visiting card.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [To FERRAND.] Here quick; take this, run after her! When they've
      done with her tell her to come to us.
    </p>
    <p>
      FERRAND. [Taking the card, and reading the address.] "No. 7, Haven House,
      Flight Street!" Rely on me, Monsieur&mdash;I will bring her myself to call
      on you. 'Au revoir, mon bon Monsieur'!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He bends over WELLWYN's hand; then, with a bow to ANN goes out; his
        tattered figure can be seen through the window, passing in the wind.
        WELLWYN turns back to the fire. The figure of TIMSON advances into the
        doorway, no longer holding in either hand a waterproof leg-piece.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [In a croaky voice.] Sir!
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. What&mdash;you, Timson?
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. On me larst legs, sir. 'Ere! You can see 'em for yerself! Shawn't
      trouble yer long....
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [After a long and desperate stare.] Not now&mdash;TIMSON not now!
      Take this! [He takes out another card, and hands it to TIMSON] Some other
      time.
    </p>
    <p>
      TIMSON. [Taking the card.] Yer new address! You are a gen'leman. [He
      lurches slowly away.]
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [ANN shuts the street door and sets her back against it. The rumble of
        the approaching van is heard outside. It ceases.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      ANN. [In a fateful voice.] Daddy! [They stare at each other.] Do you know
      what you've done? Given your card to those six rotters.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [With a blank stare.] Six?
    </p>
    <p>
      ANN. [Staring round the naked room.] What was the good of this?
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. [Following her eyes&mdash;-very gravely.] Ann! It is stronger
      than me.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [Without a word ANN opens the door, and walks straight out. With a heavy
        sigh, WELLWYN sinks down on the little stool before the fire. The three
        humble-men come in.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CHIEF HUMBLE-MAN. [In an attitude of expectation.] This is the larst of
      it, sir.
    </p>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. Oh! Ah! yes!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He gives them money; then something seems to strike him, and he
        exhibits certain signs of vexation. Suddenly he recovers, looks from one
        to the other, and then at the tea things. A faint smile comes on his
        face.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      WELLWYN. You can finish the decanter.
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [He goes out in haste.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      CHIEF HUMBLE-MAN. [Clinking the coins.] Third time of arskin'! April fool!
      Not 'arf! Good old pigeon!
    </p>
    <p>
      SECOND HUMBLE-MAN. 'Uman being, I call 'im.
    </p>
    <p>
      CHIEF HUMBLE-MAN. [Taking the three glasses from the last packing-case,
      and pouring very equally into them.] That's right. Tell you wot, I'd never
      'a touched this unless 'e'd told me to, I wouldn't&mdash;not with 'im.
    </p>
    <p>
      SECOND HUMBLE-MAN. Ditto to that! This is a bit of orl right! [Raising his
      glass.] Good luck!
    </p>
    <p>
      THIRD HUMBLE-MAN. Same 'ere!
    </p>
    <p>
      [Simultaneously they place their lips smartly against the liquor, and at
      once let fall their faces and their glasses.]
    </p>
    <p>
      CHIEF HUMBLE-MAN. [With great solemnity.] Crikey! Bill! Tea! .....'E's got
      us!
    </p>
    <blockquote>
      <p>
        [The stage is blotted dark.]
      </p>
    </blockquote>
    <p>
      Curtain.
    </p>
    <p>
      THE END <br /> <br />
    </p>
    <hr />
    <p>
      <br /> <br />
    </p>
    <h2>
      <i>GALSWORTHY'S PLAYS</i>
    </h2>
    <p>
      <a name="link2H_TOC" id="link2H_TOC_">
      <!--  H2 anchor --> </a>
    </p>
    <h2>
      <i>Links to All Volumes</i>
    </h2>
    <table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto" cellpadding="4" border="3">
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE FIRST SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2906/2906-h/2906-h.htm"><b>The
          Silver Box</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2907/2907-h/2907-h.htm"><b>Joy</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2908/2908-h/2908-h.htm"><b>Strife</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE SECOND SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2909/2909-h/2909-h.htm"><b>The
          Eldest Son</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2910/2910-h/2910-h.htm"><b>Little
          Dream</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2911/2911-h/2911-h.htm"><b>Justice</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE THIRD SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2912/2912-h/2912-h.htm"><b>The
          Fugitive</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2913/2913-h/2913-h.htm"><b>The
          Pigeon</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2914/2914-h/2914-h.htm"><b>The
          Mob</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE FOURTH SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2915/2915-h/2915-h.htm"><b>A
          Bit O'Love</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2916/2916-h/2916-h.htm"><b>The
          Foundations</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2917/2917-h/2917-h.htm"><b>The
          Skin Game</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE FIFTH SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/4764/4764-h/4764-h.htm"><b>A
          Family Man</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/4765/4765-h/4765-h.htm"><b>Loyalties</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/4766/4766-h/4766-h.htm"><b>Windows</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
        <td>
          THE SIXTH SERIES:
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2918/2918-h/2918-h.htm"><b>The
          First and Last</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2919/2919-h/2919-h.htm"><b>The
          Little Man</b></a>
        </td>
        <td>
          <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2920/2920-h/2920-h.htm"><b>Four
          Short Plays</b></a>
        </td>
      </tr>
    </table>
    <p>
      <br /> <br /> <br />
    </p>
<pre xml:space="preserve">




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