Jones (contemptuously). You're the victim of nothing but your own swelled head.
Peter. I'm the victim of my own great nature. A nature that's cast in too large a mould to submit to pettifogging little rules. My life was the people's. I demanded nothing in return but a free hand and no interference. I've to do this mighty task in my own way.
Jones. Yes. The way you found most profitable.
Peter. I'm spending every penny I earn.
Jones. Yes. I'll believe you for once. This place proves that. We sent you here to be our representative, not to be a bloody * gentleman. I know what your indisposition was that kept you from the House tonight. I saw its skirts when you opened the door. That's what we're paying for. For you to—faugh, you sicken me.
* This word must be omitted in representation. It was
censored by the Lord Chamberlain about two months before it
was passed in Mr. Shaw's "Pygmalion.'
Peter. You lie.
Jones. I don't. I saw her.
Peter (deliberately). There's no woman here except my mother.
Ned (solemnly). Is that the truth, Peter? I also thought I saw a skirt that I'm sure your mother couldn't wear.