MRS. WIL. Thank you, sir. (She goes out with Dowden, l.)

CLAV. Are you sure of that?

CHARLIE. God knows, but the insurance people shan't rob her if I can help it. Isn't it damnable, Clavering?

CLAV. Yes. But it won't last for ever.

CHARLIE. The book, you mean. (Taking a book from his pocket.)

CLAV. Yes, the book. Hullo, do you carry it about with you?

CHARLIE. I'm going to give this to Thompson to-day.

CLAV. Are you?

CHARLIE (a little anxiously). It's all right, I suppose? About the publication?

CLAV. Oh, yes. I heard from Mitchell this morning. It will be published to-morrow.