You see, dear, you were mistaken in that sign.

Livingston

(Casually)

Perhaps. Curious though how much information a man picks up while he waits about. (He crosses over to the case opposite.) I wonder what this one will reveal.

(Hood sees he has been caught in a slip. It spurs him into a mood of retaliation. He overcomes a momentary hesitation and then shows he resolves to tell Livingston everything.)

Hood

(With hoarse nervous intensity)

Mr. Livingston!

Bess

(Under her breath to him)