DEX. ( Whimpering.) I only want you to do what’s for your own good.
CLARA. (Turns away L.) Yes, but you must allow me to be the judge of that—and come—you haven’t had much cause to grumble up to now. You’ve been able to be drunk every night for the last three months.
DEX. (Rises c.) I ain’t been drunk. (Takes hat off table r. c.)
CLARA. Not for you perhaps—(goes l. a little)—drunk in the ordinary sense of the word—and I will get you something to-day if I can.
DEX. (Drying his eyes.) God bless you, Clara, you’re a good girl. Do you think you’ll be able to get a twenty?
CLARA. You must leave it to me. I’ll get you as much as I can.
ALLEN. (Off l.) Thank you, Mr. Puffin.
PIFF. (Off l.) Piffin, Piffin, sir.
CLARA. (Moving away towards door—upper l.) Come into the next room now. Here’s Allen coming back.
DEX. (As he follows her out.) Say you want to help a poor woman who’s very ill, and has been ordered nourishing food and—(gags.)