Dick. No! no! Sparkle’s recognised.
Ned. (coming down, R.) His jokes are.
Dick. That doesn’t matter. It’s his name I want. The public judges only by the brand. One play’s just as good as another.
Sir H. That’s your experience?
Dick. Yes. On the whole, I think a bad play’s better than a good one, but we none of us know anything about it.
Alma. If you would only try him, here is an author to your hand.
Dick. (alarmed) You—an author? (puts hat on)
Ned. Only last week I wrote to you about a play I’d sent you.
Dick. (crosses to Sir Humphrey; pulls out watch) How are your trains, Sir Humphrey? I’ve an appointment at four sharp, in town.
Sir H. I see you are a man of business.