JABEZ. Out with it man! What's to do?
CLAV. I've come to see you about one of your men—a fellow named Alcott.
JABEZ (Reflectively). Alcott? Alcott?
CLAV. You don't just call him to mind?
JABEZ. No, but I will.
CLAV. That won't matter. It's just——
JABEZ (rising). But it does matter; if I talk about a man I like to know who I'm talking about. I shan't be a moment. My record book's handy.
CLAV. Record book? You keep it here?
JABEZ. Yes; I've every man's record in that book. I don't risk leaving a thing like that at the works, safe or no safe. (Crossing and reaching door l.) I'll go and look the name up. Lomax is here too with the letters for signing, but that won't detain me long. (Exit taking hunch of keys from his trousers' pocket.)
CLAV. Miss Thompson, I'm glad your father's gone. It gives me an opportunity——