The Big Drum: A Comedy in Four Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

Dunning.

[Briskly.] Ten-thirty suit you, gentlemen?

Sir Randle, Philip, and Roope.

[Together.] Half-past-ten.

Roope.

[Scribbling with a pocket-pencil on his shirt-cuff.] 6, Carmichael Lane, Walbrook——

Dunning.

[Pulling down his under-coat.] I'll be there.

Roope.

[Lowering his hands suddenly and leaning back in his chair, as if about to administer a poser.] By the way, Mr. Dunning, you tell us you have a strong conviction that Messrs. Hopwood & Co. are a myth, and their offices a sham—[caustically] may I ask whether you've tried to ascertain who is the actual tenant of the room and cellar in Carmichael Lane?