I see the broad meadows and the tall Spire of the college—the Spire! Oh, my whole life seems made up of Bills and Spires!
Blore.
[To himself.] I’ll do it! I’ll do it!
[Unseen by The Dean he quickly and quietly steals out by the door.
The Dean.
Where are the drugs—the drugs? [Opening the medicine chest and bending down over the bottles he pours some drops from a bottle into the basin.] [Counting.] Three—four—five—six. [He replaces the bottle and takes another.] How fortunate some animals are! [Counting.] One—two—three, four. It’s done!
[Taking up the medicine chest he goes with it into the Library.
As he disappears Blore re-enters stealthily fingering a small paper packet.
Blore.
[In a whisper.] Strychnine! [There is a heavy roll of thunder—Blore darts to the table, empties the contents of the packet into the basin, and stirs vigorously with the rolling-pin.] I’ve cooked Dandy Dick! I’ve cooked Dandy Dick! [He moves from the table in horror.] Oh! I’m only a hamatoor sportsman and I can’t afford a uncertainty. [As The Dean returns, Blore starts up guiltily.] Can I help you any more, Sir?