Lucy. But this isn't money, is it? It's for the town.
Ste. Oh, yes, of course, it's the town.
Lucy. Then you'd——
(Janet, the maid, opens the door right to Stephen's obvious relief.)
Janet. Mr. Bamford, Mr. Alcorn.
Ste. Ah, that's what I'm waiting for. Don't go beyond call, Lucy. I'll be wanting you soon.
(Exit Lucy l.)
(Enter r. Bamford and Alcorn.)
(Samuel Bamford is a wealthy shoddy manufacturer. He is a bachelor of forty, a bon viveur and a sportsman. His shrewd ruddy face shows above a white four-in-hand scarf, controlled by a horseshoe gold pin. He is well covered with flesh, but not yet as gross as he probably will be in a few years. His clothes are slightly sportsmanlike in cut and he wears spats. A noticeably heavy gold chain crosses his stomach. Nathaniel Alcorn is tall, spare and dark. His face is yellowish, with a drooping moustache. He wears a frock coat, and his prosperity, though evident, is less ostentatious than Bamford's.)
Ste. Good-evening, gentlemen. (To Janet.) Send Mr. Smithson up when he comes. No one else. Janet. Yes, sir. (Exit Janet.)