Alcorn (sitting). We must consider their feelings a bit. Think of the rates.
Ste. Oh, we'll consider their feelings all right. We must make 'em feel what we want 'em to feel.. Then they'll vote for what we want and kid themselves we do it for their sake. That's how to consider their feelings. When I was a lad there was a trout stream ran through Carrington. It's a sewer now, but there were trout in it then and I've caught 'em by tickling their bellies. That's the way to catch voters, Mr. Alcorn. Tickle 'em.
Alcorn. Yes, but the trout died. The voter lives to vote next time.
Ste. Go on tickling. I'm an old hand and I've never known it fail.
Bamford. You're not attending to me. I say houses. Smithson says houses.
Smiths (in alarm). Oh, no, I don't. Indeed I don't. I only say houses 'ull bring votes quicker than playing fields.
Alcorn. I suppose you couldn't shout houses and make it the other thing afterwards?
Smiths. I'm surprised at you, Mr. Alcorn. (Very righteously.) I stand for purity in municipal life.
Bamford. Yes. Always be honest with your electors.
Ste. Alcorn's got none. He's a permanent official with a certain job, or he'd know better.