PARNELL. I may do what I like with it?
MAN. Just what you like, sir.
PARNELL. Thank you.
(After a pause of meditation he very deliberately tears up the letter and puts it into the fire. Then, with rather icy politeness:)
I am much obliged to you; and I wish you a good evening.
(A little crestfallen, but with quiet self possession, the man accepts the termination of the interview.)
MAN. Good evening, sir. (He moves to the door.)
PARNELL. Stop!
(The man turns as the other goes towards him, and they meet face to face.)
You haven't given yourself a very good character, coming here, my man; but you might have done worse. Anyway, you've washed your hands of it now. Don't do things like that again.