The Benefit of the Doubt; a Comedy in Three Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

Sir Fletcher Portwood.

[Taking the book from him.] “Allingham, John Crawshaw, Esq., 11 Bentham Street, W., and Turf and Garrick Clubs.—The Lichens, Epsom, Surrey.”

[Mrs. Cloys takes the book from Sir Fletcher. She tears out the page and throws the book upon the settee.

Mrs. Cloys.

[Folding the extracted page, and slipping it into her glove.] Fletcher, Claude, you had better come with me. I may want you both. Claude, whistle a four-wheeled cab. You hear me!

[Claude goes out.

Sir Fletcher Portwood.

But, Harriet, do you seriously, soberly, entertain the notion?

Mrs. Cloys.

Get your hat! [Sir Fletcher goes out. Mrs. Cloys turns to Justina.] Telegraph to the Bishop of St. Olpherts, The Palace, St. Olpherts: “Detained here to-night. Return, D.V., forenoon to-morrow. Get to bed early. Affectionate messages.—H.”