Dr. Carver (without emotion). Yes. It is very sad. You’ll be apt to find these things in “The Universe” before “The Earth” gets them. I wonder if he—
Dr. Gazell. No. Never. He was above reproach. A hard man to get along with—willful, but above reproach. I am greatly shocked!
Dr. Thorne (stepping out into the crowd). Ah, Gazell! Good-morning. I am—I am very glad to see you, Dr. Gazell (pathetically).
(Dr. Gazell continues reading his paper. He does not look up.)
Dr. Thorne (with embarrassment). Gazell! (He moves directly in front of the office of “The Earth.” At that moment a new bulletin flashes in large letters, over the heads of the crowd, these words:—
Rumor Confirmed.
Shocking Accident!
Terrible Tragedy.
Runaway at the West End.
Mrs. Frederick Fayth Dangerously Hurt.
The Eminent and Popular Physician,
Dr. Esmerald Thorne,
Killed Instantly.)
(Dr. Thorne reads, and reels; stares about him appealingly.)
(Murmurs are heard from the crowd.)
Enter two Office Girls.
(First Office Girl starts, and points to the bulletin.)