Ned. Doesn't it? Well, listen to me. There'll be a by-election here shortly.
Peter. Why? (Peter leaves Margaret and comes forward to chair right of table.)
Ned. Ramsden's resigning South-west Midlandton.
Jones. About time the old hypocrite did, too.
Peter. This is news to me.
Ned. I know that. It was news to us last night. The question is, do we run a candidate this time?
Peter. We ought to. It's a labour seat by rights.
Jones. If only the thick-headed fools would sec their own interests.
Peter (turning). Margaret, you'll have to give me back my word. (Slight pause.)
Jones. What word's that?