Beldon. A good idea.
Leek. I shouldn't, if I were you.
Hirst. Just for the joke, gentlemen (C.).
Somers. No, no—drop it, Hirst.
Hirst. Only for the joke. Look here, I've got some things that'll do very well. We're going to have some amateur theatricals at my house. We're doing a couple of scenes from "The Rivals," Somers, (pointing to Somers) and I have been up to town to get the costumes, wigs, etc., to-day. I've got them up-stairs—knee-breeches, stockings, buckled shoes, and all that sort of thing. It's a rare chance. If you wait a bit, I'll give you a full dress rehearsal, entitled "Jerry Bundler, or the Nocturnal Stranger." (At door L.).
Leek (sneeringly). You won't frighten us, will you?
Hirst. I don't know so much about that—it's a question of acting, that's all.
Malcolm. I'll bet you a level sov, you don't frighten me.
Hirst (quietly). A level sov. (Pauses.) Done. I'll take the bet to frighten you first, and the old boy afterwards. These gentlemen shall be the judges. (Points to Leek and Beldon.)
Beldon (up C.). You won't frighten us because we're prepared for you, but you'd better leave the old man alone. It's dangerous play. (Appeals to Leek).