SCENE I
Lord Leonard Alcar's study, Grosvenor Gardens. Door, back centre. Door, L. Janet's portrait is conspicuous on a wall.
Time.—The next afternoon.
Lord Leonard Alcar and Mr. Texel are coming into the room from door at back.
Alcar. You still go on collecting, Mr. Texel?
Texel. (Uncertain of his steps.) Well, yes. I've been amusing myself with pictures for pretty nigh forty years. Why should I deprive myself of this pleasure merely because my eyesight's gone?
Alcar. Why, indeed! You have the true collecting spirit. Permit me (directs Texel's hand to chair).
Texel. Thanks, I'm on to it (Sitting down.) My sight's going steadily worse, but there are still a few things that I can make out pretty clearly, Lord Leonard. Motor omnibuses, cathedrals, English easy-chairs....
[129]Alcar. Well, I'm charmed to find you in such good spirits, and really I feel very grateful to you for accepting my invitation.
Texel. Delighted to make your acquaintance, sir. Two old collectors like us—rivals at Christie's. I wonder how many times I've cabled over instructions to my agent to smash you at any cost. Delighted to meet you, Lord Leonard.