"In view of the distressing accident which occurred last night, it has been decided to grant a halfholiday to the entire staff with full pay on the afternoon of the 18th inst., in order——"
LOMAX. One moment, sir.
JABEZ. Got that?
LOMAX. "The 18th inst." Yes, sir.
JABEZ. "In order to give all an opportunity of attending the funeral ceremony." Finished?
LOMAX (pause, then, rising). Yes, sir.
JABEZ (crossing hack to fire). Do you chance to know, Lomax, if there happens to be a football match that afternoon?
LOMAX (coughing deprecatorily). I don't follow the sport myself, but I fancy it's the usual mid-week day.
JABEZ. Ah. Have twenty copies of that notice typed and bring them here. I'll sign them myself. Then send them out to the departments, and—er—you might see that one comes in the way of the reporters at the inquest.
LOMAX. Yes, sir. (Going.)