Mr. Pim Passes By
Act I
The morning-room at Marden House (Buckinghamshire) decided more than a hundred years ago that it was all right, and has not bothered about itself since. Visitors to the house have called the result such different adjectives as "mellow," "old-fashioned," "charming"–even "baronial" and "antique;" but nobody ever said it was "exciting." Sometimes Olivia wants it to be more exciting, and last week she rather let herself go over some new curtains; she still has the rings to put on. It is obvious that the curtains alone will overdo the excitement; they will have to be harmonized with a new carpet and cushions. Olivia has her eye on just the things, but one has to go carefully with George. What was good enough, for his great-great-grandfather is good enough for him. However, we can trust Olivia to see him through it, although it may take time.
A scene plot is given at the end of the play.
There are three ways of coming into the room: by the open windows leading from the garden, by the doors to R., or by the staircase from up R, Mr. Pim chooses the latter way–or rather Anne chooses it for him; and Mr. Pim kindly and inoffensively follows her. She comes down steps and crosses to C., followed by Mr. Pim.
Anne (moves up, looking off L. and returning to Pim R.C.). I'll tell Mr. Marden you're here, sir. Mr. Pim, isn't it?
Pim (nervously). Yes–er–Mr. Pim–Mr. Carraway Pim. He doesn't know me, you understand, but if he could just spare me a few moments–er—(He fumbles in his pockets.) I gave you that letter?
Anne. Yes, sir, I'll give it to him.
Pim (brings out a stamped letter which is not the one he was looking for, but which reminds him of something else he has forgotten. Looking at letter). Oh! Dear me!
Anne. Yes, sir?