J. Stepney. I thought all the pictures had been bought by Dr. Schutzmacher.
Gersaint. So they were, my boy, but he has wired saying they are all to be put up for sale at double the price; capital business, you see we shall get two commissions.
J. Stepney. Yes, sir. It is fortunate Mrs. Dubedat did not have the prices marked in the Catalogue.
Gersaint. You mean Mrs. Schutzmacher. (Drives in last nail).
J. Stepney. Yes, sir.
Enter a striking-looking-man, not unlike a Holbein drawing, at a distance: but on nearer inspection, as he comes within range of the footlights, he is more like an Isaac Oliver or Nicholas Lucidel. He examines the notice and sniffs.
s.l.m.n.u.h.d. Which are the works of Art?
Edmund Gosse. Can you tell me who that is? He is one of the few people I don’t know by sight. A celebrity of course; and do point out any obscurities. Every one is so distinguished. It is rather confusing.
Gersaint. That is the Holland Park Wonder, so-called because he lives at the top of a tower in Holland Park—the greatest Art Connoisseur in England. Mr. Charles Ricketts, the greatest—
Edmund Gosse. Thank you; thank you.