The Benefit of the Doubt; a Comedy in Three Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

[Upon entering, Quaife has encountered Mrs. Allingham; her eyes fall upon the letter on the salver.

Olive.

[Under her breath, staring at the letter.] Ah-h-h!

Quaife.

Ma’am?

Olive.

[Drawing back and speaking to Quaife.] Well, give it to Mr. Allingham.

Quaife.

A boy has brought this, sir—waiting for an answer.

[John is about to take the letter; when he sees the writing upon the envelope he hesitates for a moment and draws his hand back; then he picks up the letter deliberately.