Nig. To make a plain reply, what is it to you? (Knocking without.) Another call, what shall I do? How the time is getting on—my only chance is to drop out of the window into the road.
MR. NARCISSUS BOSS, without, F.E.L.
Boss. Mr. Niggle at home? Oh, very well. [Enters.] Good morning to you, Niggle. Ah! Damper, you here. (Crosses to C.) Ladies, your most obedient, I dropped in to see my friend. Mr. Niggle, the strangest bit of gossip you ever heard—while I was at my tailor’s, suggesting an alteration in my arm-holes—clumsy fellow has made me thirty coats and can’t fit me yet.
Dam. Never mind your tailor—what of the gossip?
Boss. I don’t think I’m justified in publicly retailing it; but my operative assured me on his honor as a man, that he had heard it, and as I know our friend Niggle is interested in the party scandalized, I thought it but friendly to call and drop him a hint of what I have heard.
Miss Sky. (Crossing to him and whispering.) Of Miss Coy?
Boss. Yes, what have you heard?
Miss Sky. I have indeed.
Miss Sna. Relating to the party you alluded to, Miss Skylark?