SKRUFF. In one word—what do you know about this Captain Taunton and Teddy?
GRITTY. Teddy! who the deuce is Teddy?
SKRUFF. Mr. Edward Mallingford.
GRITTY. That they’re as pleasant, gentlemanly a couple of young fellows as you’ll find in England! What have you to say against them, eh?
SKRUFF. Only this, that you’ve been done, Gritty—decidedly done!
GRITTY (aside). He decidedly has been at the sherry! (Aloud.) Your proofs, Mr. Skruff! (angrily).
SKRUFF. Nothing easier! Read that (hands letter to GRITTY).
GRITTY (reading). What’s this? Can I believe my eyes? Young men of good family—with handsome allowances—raising the wind in this disreputable manner! It’s disgraceful!—then to keep me in the dark—it’s petty! paltry! contemptible! (walking up and down).
SKRUFF (following him). That’s what I say! It’s petty! paltry! contemptible!
GRITTY (suddenly turning and facing SKRUFF). Look here, Skruff! if you’ve no particular desire to be strangled, you’ll hold your tongue! I’ll break off both engagements at once!