AUSTIN. That Chief Constable's an incompetent ass. He never sends us enough men.
MARTIN. Fewer than usual to-day. There's a socialist demonstration on the recreation ground, and that's taken away a lot of police.
AUSTIN. Idiot! Does he think Blackton people will go to a political meeting when there's a football match?
MARTIN. As you say, sir, he's a fool.
AUSTIN (sitting at desk). No use claiming for the loss either. Pass me the cheque-book, Martin. Those people with the mortgage on the stands threaten to foreclose unless we pay on Monday. I'd a letter this morning.
MARTIN (opening safe and passing cheque-book from it). Can we meet it, sir?
AUSTIN. Yes. Metherell's transfer fee is in the Bank.
MARTIN. That brightens our sky.
AUSTIN. Think so, Martin?
(Martin replaces Austin at desk, signs cheque, tears it out and then puts book back in safe.)