'Oh, is it going to be a comic opera?'
'Why, of course not. Don't I tell you it's to be a powerful play of real life.'
'Will you tell me the plot?'
He smiled rather fatuously. 'I'll tell you some of the plot, certainly, if you like—at least, I'll tell you how it's going to begin.'
'Do go on!'—
'Well, I must tell you it begins in a rather unconventional way—entirely different from most plays; but that'll make it all the more striking, and I won't alter it—mind that—not for anybody. Well, the curtain goes up, and you find two servants—do you see?—talking over their master and mistress. The maid—her name's Parker—is dusting the photographs and things, and she says to the manservant something about "The mistress does seem in a tantrum, doesn't she, Parker?" So he says—'
'But are they both called Parker?' asked Edith.
'Yes—no—of course not. I forgot; it's the man that's called Parker. But that isn't the point. Well, they talk, and gradually let out a little of the plot. Then two friends of the hero come in, and—oh, I can't bother to tell you any more now; but isn't it rather a good idea, eh? So new!'
'Capital! Splendid! Such a lovely original idea. I do wish you'd be quick and do it, Bruce.'
'I am being quick; but you mustn't be in too great a hurry; you must give me time.'