The Big Drum: A Comedy in Four Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

[They all laugh merrily.

Ottoline.

Ha, ha, ha! [To Sir Timothy.] Wait for me in South Square, then. I sha'n't be many minutes.

Sir Timothy.

[Going into the vestibule.] Ah, I'd wait an eternity!

[Philip and Sir Timothy shake hands once more, and then Philip lets Sir Timothy out.

Philip.

[As he shuts the outer door.] By George, he's a splendid chap! [He comes back into the room, closes the vestibule door, and advances to Ottoline and stands before her humbly.] Oh, Ottoline—oh, my dear girl! Shall I go down on my knees to you?

Ottoline.

[In a subdued tone.] If you do, I shall have to kneel to you, Phil.