The Big Drum: A Comedy in Four Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

[A cheery little man in seedy clothes—to the waiter, softly.] Careful! Don't crease it.

Philip.

[Raising his eyes from his book.] What's the time, John?

John.

Quarter-to-six, sir.

Philip.

Have my things come from the tailor's yet?

John.

[Laying the cloth with the aid of the waiter.] Yes, sir; while you were dozing. [Ecstatically.] They're lovely, sir. [A bell rings in the vestibule.] Expect that's the cook, sir. [He bustles into the vestibule from the dining-room. There is a short pause and then he reappears, entering the study at the door opening from the vestibule, followed by Roope.] It's Mr. Roope, sir!

Philip.