The Big Drum: A Comedy in Four Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

Quite well—and my brother Bertram. [Chilled.] Perhaps you've heard that I am making my home with them now in London, permanently—that I've left Paris?

Philip.

Robbie—and the newspapers—have told me. It's late in the day to do it—may I offer you my sympathy?

Ottoline.

[With a stately inclination of the head.] Thank you. And I my congratulations on your success?

Philip.

[Quietly.] Success!

Ottoline.

[Comprehending.] Ah? Le public est si bête. I've read every line you've written, I believe. [He bows.] I—I have felt proud to think that we were once—that we were once—not des inconnus.

[He bows again, and there is silence between them. The dining-room door opens and Noyes presents himself. A waiter is seen in the dining-room, standing at the side table.