I do. [With dignity.] Acquaint Mr. Burroughs with my decision, and add that I hope his pantomime will prove an utterly mirthless one. May Boxing-night, to those unfortunate enough to find themselves in the theatre, long remain a dismal memory; and may succeeding audiences, scanty and dissatisfied——! [Colpoys presents Gadd with the letter. Gadd opens it and reads.] I leave. [Sitting.] The Romeo, the Orlando, the Clifford—leaves!
Avonia.
[Coming to Gadd, indicating some lines in the part.] Ferdy, this aint so bad. [Reading.]
"I'm Discontent! from Orkney's isle to Dover
To make men's bile bile-over I endover-"
Gadd.
'Vonia! [Taking the part from Avonia, with mingled surprise and pleasure.] Ho, ho! no, that's not bad. [Reading.]
Tempers, though sweet, I whip up to a lather,
Make wives hate husbands, sons wish fathers farther."
'Vonia, there's is something to lay hold of here! I'll think this over. [Rising, addressing Colpoys.] Gus, I have thought this over. I play it.