Clara. Charles, I won't stand this? Grab hold of him. Search him. You hold him. I'll telephone.
Thief. You can't.
Clara. You've cut the wires.
Thief. Didn't have to. Your telephone service has been cut off by the company. I found that out before I came. I suspect you neglected the bill. You ought not to, makes no end of trouble. Inconvenienced me this evening. Better get it put in right away.
Clara. Charles, do I have to stand here and be insulted?
Thief. Sit down. Won't you, please! This is your last ham-sandwich, so I can't offer you any, but there's plenty of beer in the cellar, if you care for it. I don't recommend it, but perhaps you're used to it.
Clara [almost crying]. Charles, are you going to let him preach to us all night! I won't have it. Being lectured by a thief!
Charles. You can't stop a man's talking, my dear, especially this sort of man. Can't you see he's a born preacher? Old man, while advice is going round, let me tell you that you've missed your calling. Why don't you go in for reform? Ought to go big.
Clara. Oh, Charles! Don't talk to him. You're a good deal bigger than he is.
Thief. Maybe I'll jiu-jitsu him.