BUILDER, rising, takes a turn up and down the room.
BUILDER. Nor do I. Yes! I'll see him.
TOPPING goes out, and BUILDER stands over by the fender, with his head a little down.
TOPPING. [Re-entering] The Mayor, sir.
He retires up Left. The MAYOR is overcoated, and carries, of all things, a top hat. He reaches the centre of the room before he speaks.
MAYOR. [Embarrassed] Well, Builder?
BUILDER. Well?
MAYOR. Come! That caution of mine was quite parliamentary. I 'ad to save face, you know.
BUILDER. And what about my face?
MAYOR. Well, you—you made it difficult for me. 'Ang it all! Put yourself into my place!