Ebag. (With suave assurance.) But I do.
Alcar. (Continuing.) I do not doubt your conviction, Mr. Texel. It merely proves that you have never seen a British Jury exercising itself upon a question relating to the fine arts. If you had you would not be certain, for you would know that twelve tradesmen so occupied are capable of accomplishing the most incredible marvels. Supposing you don't win—supposing Mr. Ebag wins——
Ebag. As I assuredly shall.
Alcar. Then we should have the whole world saying, "Well, they haven't given a national funeral to a really great artist for about a century, and when at last they do try they only succeed in burying a valet."
Carve. (Looking round casually.) England all over!
Alcar. The effect would be lamentable—utterly lamentable. You will realize that in influential quarters——
Texel. But do you reckon this policy of hushing up things ever does any good?
Alcar. My dear sir, it is the corner-stone of England's greatness. It is the policy that has made her what she is!
Carve. (Looking round again.) True! What she is!
Alcar. (Turning sharply to Carve behind