Mr. S. Yes. Why do you ask?
Ruth. Nothing; go on—it’s all topsy-turvy!
Mr. S. I shall be happy if I can serve you in any way. I shall always be glad to hear that you are doing well, and I feel certain that the admirable lady who has so kindly taken you in hand will have no reason to regret her charity. It is easy to fall, and hard to rise again—Heaven bless those who extend a helping hand. I am very glad indeed that we have met. I’ve no wish to press hardly on any fellow-creature.[Exit.
Ruth. Jonas Smailey! Smailey here! Things come about queerly. I seed him last at t’other end o’ the world, and to meet him here! Who’s that? (Fitz Partington has entered unobserved on tiptoe, and tapped her on the shoulder.)
Fitz. Come here. (Taking out note-book.) Your name’s Ruth Tredgett?
Ruth. (surprised). Ay.
Fitz. What are you?
Ruth. A ’spectable woman. Wot are you?
Fitz. A detective.