Sel. (speaking to him off). Do make haste, there’s a good fellow! (Aside.) I knew he wouldn’t be ungrateful. I knew that he wouldn’t forget that I had saved his life, no, I mean that he had saved mine! (Calling off, L.) Ain’t you ready? (Aside.) He shall be repaid for this! One of these days. I shall be able to grasp him by the hand and say—(calling off.) What the devil are you doing?
Re-enter Fred, L. 2 E.
Fred. Don’t shout! Here I am!
Sel. At last!
Enter Dibbs, quickly, R. 2 E.
Dibbs. There’s a cab just driven up to the door, sir. I think it’s the missus!
Sel. (to Fred). Off you go! You have the letter? (Going, L.) Not that way, you will meet her! Remember the directory, and above all don’t forget the name “Tompkins.” It’s engraven in letters of enormous size on my heart. Get the same done on yours!
(Exit Fred, door at back.
Sel. Now to hoodwink the wife! (Sitting down and taking newspaper). I must meet her eye without flinching. (Enter Mrs. Selwyn and Grace, at door in flat.) Ah, my dear, so glad to see you back! (He kisses wife and daughter.)
Mrs. S. Have you been dull, Sam dear!