THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES GIFT OF PASSERS-BY PASSERS-BY A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS BY C. HADDON CHAMBERS LONDON DUCKWORTH AND CO. HENRIETTA ST. COVENT GARDEN 1913 All rights reserved PRINTED BY BALLANTYNE & COMPANY LTD AT THE BALLANTYNE PRESS TAVISTOCK STREET COVENT GARDEN LONDON All applications respecting the performance of Mr. (.'. H addon Chambers play must be made to the author" s agents : MESSRS. SAMUEL FRENCH LIMITED 26 SOUTHAMPTON STREKT STRAND LONDON .* *-s 3L/ PRINTED BY BALLANTYNE & COMPANY LTD AT THE BALLANTVNE PRESS TAVISTOCK STREET COVENT GARDEN- LONDON TO MARGERY HADDON CHAMBERS PERSONS CONCERNED MK. PKTEE WAVEBTON (27) WILLIAM PINE, his man-servant (40) NIGHTY, a cabman (60) SAMUEL BUBNS, a tramp (36) MAEGARET SUMMERS (25) THE LADY HURLEY, Waverton's half-sister (15) Miss BEATRICE DAINTON, Lady Hurley's niece (23) LITTLE PETER SUMMERS (6) MRS. PARKER, Wavcrton's cook-housekeeper (60) PERIOD : Our own times ORIGINAL PRODUCTION The First production of Passers-by was made at Wyndham's Theatre, London, under the manage- ment of Messrs. Frank Curzon and Gerald du Maurier, on the evening of March 29, 1911, with the following cast : ME. PETER WAVERTON PINE .... NIGHTY SAMUEL BURNS . MARGARET SUMMERS . THE LADY HURLEY BEATRICE DAINTON . LITTLE PETER SUMMERS MR. GERALD DU MAURIER MR. GAYER MACKAY MR. GEOEGE SIIELTON MR. O. P. HEGGIE Miss IRENE VANBRUGH Miss HELEN FERRERS Miss NINA SEVENING Miss RENEE MAYER PASSERS :BY Acts 1-2-3-4 Scal c PROS WALL PROSCEN Room in Mr. Waverton's apartments in Piccadilly. The decoration is in Adam is a tapestry wall paper relieved with pilasters, which support a moulded i enriched panels and overdoors. The fire-place is in two marbles, green and whi electric li| BACK CLOTH ST JAMES RARK GAUGES TOR to& DOUBLE CASEMENT WINDOW EASY CHAIR TELEPHONE G n AN 0- FATHERS D O r CIGA.R CABINET COAL SCUTTLE PE N I N G BELL PUSH "'.WOOD SCUTTLE PROS WALL , with dark mahogany panelling reaching to a height of seven feet, above which ce. The ceiling also in Adam style is enriched in bold relief. The doors have Double set of windows overlooking the Green Park. There are eight brackets for n pilasters. ACT I SCENE : A handsome sitting-room in a bachelor's apart- ments on the first floor of a house in Piccadilly r , opposite the Green Park. It is obviously the room of a man of comfortable means and good taste. The decoration and furniture are of the Adams period. (For details of scene see accompany ing plan) TIME : It is about half-past ten at night in the winter, and there is a cheerful fire in the room. At rise of curtain stage is in darkness, save for the reflection through the windows of the lights in the street below. PINE, who is smoking a cigar, is up L.C., looking out of window, Suddenly he flings the window open and calls across the road* PINE. Nighty! [Slight pause. As the call receives no response he whistles in a peculiar way* This apparently attracts attention and he waves his arm, inviting the person signalled to cross the road, After another slight pause, during which he watches NIGHTY cross the road, he bends out of the window and speaks to him. 9 10 PASSERS-BY ACT i Come along up ! [Slight 2)ause,] Oh, yes, it's all right. [He withdraws into the window, which he closes. PINE then goes down R.C., switches on electric light, then crosses up to sideboard and brings down tray, on vfhich are decanters, syphons, and glasses. As he comes doivn there is a knocking on outer door; he places tray on table down R. and exits R.I.E., and the slamming of outer door is heard. A few moments later PINE re-enters, accompanied by NIGHTY. PINE switches on more light. [NIGHTY is a typical London cabman of about sixty, weather-beaten, broad-shouldered and slightly stooping. His face is at once cheerful and shrevxl, and he has the quality of being deferential without any sacrifice of his natural 2^'ide, He is very ^varmly clad. As he enters the room he takes his hat off. PINE. [Behind table R.] Pretty cold outside ! NIGHTY. [Down R.] Nippy, I call it, but I've known worse. PINE. A little something to warm the chest wouldn't hurt anyway. NIGHTY. Thank you, kindly, Mr. Pine, I could do with it, and that's a fact. [PiNE busies himself with decanter and glass, Me and my old horse are just going to have our supper. ACT i PASSERS-BY 11 PINE. I saw you drive up to the shelter. Had a good job ? NIGHTY. [B. of table R.] Fair ! Stout party with a couple of kids to Ravenscourt Park 'Ammersmith for short an extra bob for crossing the radius, and nothing for all the way back. Your 'ealth, Mr. Pine. [He drinks from the glass PINE has handed to him, then puts glass on table. PINE. Same to you, Nighty ! [He drinks. NIGHTY. Prime stuff! Goes straight to the spot. PINE. Have a cigar ? [Points to box, which is open, on table. NIGHTY. No, thank you, Mr. Pine, a drop of whisky is only a drop of whisky, and no one would grudge it to an old cabman on a cold night. But when it comes to them things. [Picks up box.] Lord ! it's like eating money. Couple o' bob a touch, I shouldn't wonder ! [Puts box back on table. PINE. You wouldn't be so squeamish if you'd been brought up in service. [He gives NIGHTY a chair, then crosses down L. NIGHTY. [Sits chair L, of table R.] We're all in service, Mr. Pine, from the highest to the lowest. The difference between you and me is that you only take orders from one boss while I take 'em from everybody that hires my cab. PINE. \By sofa L.] All the same 1 often envy you your job. NIGHTY. Why? You've got a good boss, haven't you ? I only knows him by sight, but he looks all right. 12 PASSERS-BY ACT i PINE, Oh, he's pretty well. Anyway he doesn't count his cigars and measure his whisky as some of 'em do. He's open-handed enough but you never make no headway with him. I've lived with him three years now, and I don't know him as well as I know you. [Crosses n. a little.] Is he human ? That's what I ask, NIGHTY, We're all human when you pull the mask off. PINE, [Crosses R to below table.] It'd take 'ydraulic power to pull his mask off, NIGHTY. Maybe he's had reason to fix his tight on. You never know, [PiNE helps him to more whiskey.] Thanks, only a drain, I'll have to keep m' eyes bright to-night. It's very thick down at Knights- bridge and if I'm a judge you'll have it black up here presently.; PINE, [Sitting on edge of table E.] I've never known so much fog as we've had this year. NIGHTY, [Rising] Well, I must pop off. I'm going to take my old 'orse 'ome after supper, before it gets too thick. [Through the window the fog can be seen gathering in eddies. See, it's creeping up a bit already, [The noise of a latch-key in a door is heard outside. PINE, [Startled] Good Lord ! NIGHTY. What's the matter ? PINE. That can't be the guv'nor, ACT i PASSERS-BY 13 NIGHTY. [Comes down c. a little] Why can't it ? PINE. I've never known him come in before one. NIGHTY. [With a significant look at the cigar PINE is smoking] I wouldn't go nap on that if I was you. [PiNE picks up cigar-box, hastily crosses L. and places it in drawer in cabinet L., then he throws the remainder of his cigar into the fireplace. [At the same moment enter PETER WAVERTON. He is a good-looking, ivell-set-up man of 27. The expression on his face is at once grave and indifferent, It is the expression of one who resents rather than enjoys life. He is, however, capable of a rare and very winning smile. He raises his eyebrows in momentary amazement when he sees the two men in his room, WAVERTON, [R.] Well, I'm damned ! [Leaves door open. NIGHTY, All I can say, m'lord, is yer don't look it, WAVERTON. Don't call me m'lord. NIGHTY, Very well, guv'nor, but some likes it. WAVERTON. I don't ! My name is Wavertom. Who are you ? PINE. [By fire-place L.] Beg pardon, sir, it was a liberty, I know, but I asked him in. It's Nighty, the cabman^ NIGHTY. So called, guv'nor, because I've been 14 PASSERS-BY ACT i doing night work for thirty years. No offence, I 'ope, sir ! WAVERTON. [Ironically] I trust you have been suitably entertained in my regrettable absence, Mr. Nighty? NIGHTY. The best, guv'nor thank you kindly. WAVERTON. [Cross behind table, R.] A little more whisky ? NIGHTYI Much obliged, sir, enough's as good as a hogshead, so I'll just 'op along. [Cross R. he salutes WAVERTON and goes to the door, then he turns and says gently] I should be sorry to think, guv'nor, that through 'is kindness to me Mr. Pine WAVERTON. Good night ! Pine, show Mr. Nighty the way. [Exeunt PINE and NIGHTY R. 1 E. leave door open. [WAVERTON walks to the mantelpiece L., and glances at the remainder of the cigar that PINE has thrown into the fire-place. The noise of the outer\door closing is heard. He gives a gesture of disgust. [Enter PINE, R. 1 E., closes door, then crosses up R. gets small tray there crosses down to table R. and takes up the glasses that have been used. [By fire-place] In taking my tobacco and whisky, you exceed your duty, Pine. PINE. Yes, sir. ACT i PASSERS-BY 15 WAVERTON. In using my room to entertain your friend you permitted yourself a gross liberty. PINE, Yes, sir. WAVERTON, And in throwing away, half -smoked, one of my best cigars, you committed a crime. PINE. Yes, sir. I hope that you'll allow me to apologise, sir. WAVERTON. [With angry emphasis] I'll do nothing of the kind. I'd rather receive a blow than an apology from any man at any time, I thought I could trust you. It seems I can't. You must find another place. PINE. Yes, sir. [He goes to the door R. 2 E., carrying the glasses on a tray he turns before leaving and says.] I'm sorry, sir, WAVERTON. [Shortly] So am I. [Removes coat and muffler and throws them on sofa. [Exit PINE R. 2 E.] [WAVERTON walks to the window impatiently, looks out and shivers at the prospect. The telephone bell rings, He goes to the instru- ment which is on a writing-table and takes up the receiver, [Crossly] Hello ! Hello ! Who is that ? [Then he changes to a more amiable tone] Oh, is that you, Beatrice ? [Listens for a moment.] Cross with you ? Good Heavens, no ! I came away simply because I was bored. [Listens for a moment.] Yes, bored with the others, of course. My dear Bee, how you can stand that set, I don't know. What was the one and only topic of conversation during dinner ? " What will the 16 PASSERS-BY ACT i dear Duchess do now ? " What the devil do I care what the dear Duchess will do now? The dear Duchess' love affairs leave me entirely cold. The only love affairs that interest me are my own. [Listens for a moment, takes off' hat and places it on table, then laughs slightly] Of course, I mean affair, you child, [Listens for a moment.] Oh, no doubt you were bored too, but you didn't show it. [Listens for a moment."] No, I shan't go out any more to-night, I am sick to death of bridge anyway. [He listens for a moment, then laughs with an approach to heartiness.'} All right ! [Listens for a moment.] Yes, yes, to-morrow then. Good night, dear. [Puts down the receiver, is thoughtful for a moment, then takes a book crosses to sofa and sits another moment's thought, looks over to doom. 2s., rises, flings book on sofa, rings the bell and stands at the fire-place.] [Enter PINE R. 2 E., crosses down to sofa and collects coat, wrap and hat. Pine, I came home in a very bad temper, and I have an uneasy feeling that I may have judged you too hardly. PINE. [L. c.] I make no complaints, sir. WAVERTON. [By fire-place] Everything after all is a question of point of view. You were brought up in service ? PINE. Yes, sir, like my father and mother before me. I rose from steward's boy, sir. WAVERTON. Ah ! and the point of view in service ACT i PASSERS-BY 17 is that a man may make free with his employer's goods without being considered dishonest. PINE. Within reason, sir, particularly in regard to food, drink, tobacco, and such like. Practically every valet and butler in England does it. Most go a great deal further, I could make your hair stand on end, sir, with the robbery that goes on. [Move- ment from WAVERTON] I'm not seeking to justify myself, 'but I've never belonged to that lot. I've always respected myself, sir. [Cross R. WAVERTON. Then from your point of view you'vo never been dishonest ? PINE. Never, sir. WAVERTON. And have you any point of view to explain your use of my rooms for purposes of entertainment instead of your own ? PINE. I have my excuse, with respect, sir. WAVERTON. [Leans against R. end of sofa L,] What is it? [Motions to PINE, who puts coat and wrap on chair, R., and hat on table. PINE. [Cross L. a little] Your rooms look out on to Piccadilly on to Life, sir. My rooms look out on to a dead wall on to nothing I love life, sir forgive the liberty. WAVERTON. [With a short laugh] Well, at least you've been candid, Pine. PINE. I was glad to be, sir. It's the first chance I've had during the three years I've been with you. WAVERTON. What do you mean ? B 18 PASSERS-BY ACT i PINE. I mean, with respect, sir, that it's the first time I've exchanged remarks with you except in the way of service. WAVERTON. [A little surprised] Why, Pine, the truth is I never looked on you as human. [Rises, and crosses round L. of settee to window. PINE. Mr. Nighty was saying when you came in, sir, that we're all human when the mask is pulled off. WAVEBTON. Nighty's a philosopher ? PINE. Yes, sir not that I'm a judge. WAVERTON. [Looking out of window] What a night ! PINE. [Above chair, R. c.] It's a bit cheerless, sir. WAVERTOX. Pine, did you ever suffer from an unaccountable depression? PINE. Feeling of sadness, sir melancholy, so to speak ? WAVERTON. More than that a feeling that disaster is in the air that something unexpected is going to happen ? PINE. The feeling that some one is walkin' over your grave, sir ? WAVERTON. [Up L.] Well, yes I suppose that expresses it. PINE. [By chair, R. c.] I haven't been a personal sufferer, sir, but I've known cases. Take the late lamented Hearl Edendork, for instance. I was dress- ing his lordship the night before he was run over by a motor-car, and he said to me " Pine," he said WAVERTON. [Crosses down c. to R., dryly] Yes, I've ACT i PASSERS-BY 19 no doubt his lordship made a very intelligent remark, Pine. PINE. He did, sir also his lordship made it a practice to walk under ladders. WAVERTON. [Secretly amused] You are well up in the superstitions, Pine. PINE. I've made a particular study of 'em, sir. WAVERTON. [Down R.] And you're a true believer ? PINE. With respect, sir, I not only believe, but conform. WAVERTON. [Laughing, cross L. to fire-place] Then you are human indeed ! Damme Pine, you amuse me ! and you may stay on here if you want to. PINE, I should be grateful, sir. WAVERTON. You may be, provided you don't express it. You may even exercise your point of view on my whisky, but you'll be good enough to leave my cigars alone until you've learned the proper appreciation of fine tobacco. PINE. [Behind table R.] You may trust me, sir. WAVERTON. As for using my rooms, let me see it's the window that attracts you, isn't it ? [He walks to the window. PINE. It's the passers-by, sir. WAVERTON. [Slowly] The passers-by, eh ? [Looks out curiously] They're a drab-looking lot to-night. PINE. [Up R. to windoiv] I find watching them takes me out of myself, sir. Sometimes, not knowing any one's looking, they'll play up most natural. 20 PASSERS-BY ACT i WAVERTON. [Looking intently] What's that chap doing over there ? PINE. Which one, sir ? WAVERTON. That one with the hair. [Motions to PINE, who joins Mm at toindow] There ! He's picked up something and put it in his pocket ! PINE. [Freezing up severely] Oh, 'e's no good, sir. He's not human. [He turns away from window. WAVERTON. [Picking him up quickly] Not human. How do you know ? PINE. He belongs to the dregs to the class that lives on what they pick up and charity. Sinful, I call it, sir. WAVERTON. You don't know him ? PINE. No, sir. WAVERTON. Yet you presume to judge him ? PINE. [Firmly] I know the class, sir. [Slight pause. WAVERTON. [Suddenly] Fetch him in here. PINE. [Amazed] Fetch 'im in 'ere, sir ? WAVERTON. Certainly. Why not ? PINE. Excuse me, sir, but it's my duty to warn you. No good can come of mixing with that class. WAVERTON. Do what I tell you. [PINE goes down R. and picks up coat, etc.] I, too, want taking out of myself and I choose my own methods. And bring your friend Nighty back ; I'd like to make a better impression on him. PINE. [Goes to door,^ where he turns solemnly] ACT i PASSERS-BY 21 Mr. Waverton sir if I might venture to entreat you WAVERTON. [Lightly] You might venture but in vain. Go quickly ! [Exit PINE, R. 1 E. shuts doot [Now in good spirits. That's all right ! [Comes down hesitates then takes off 'telephone receiver '.] Hello! Give me 17004 Mayfair. [Pause.] Hello, is that Lady Hurley's house ? . . . Oh it's you, Simpson ? Is Miss Beatrice there ? Oh ... playing bridge. See if she can manage to speak to me for a moment. [Pause, gets cigarette from box and lights it] Hello ! [He smiles.] Oh, Bee sorry to interrupt, but I didn't want you to go to bed thinking me an old pig. [He listens and smiles.] No, I'm not an old pig, am I ? and I didn't at all mean to be beastly but I had an attack of the blues. Pine diagnosed for me. It appears there was some one taking quite a nice stroll over my grave. [Listens and laughs.] Yes, all may yet be well. . . . Kiss you good night? . . . Wish I could. . . . Oh, your photograph. Wait a moment. [He reaches for a framed photograph on writing-table, lifts it and kisses it.] There, did you hear it ? The deed's done. [Noise of outer door.] Yes good night, dearest ! To-morrow ! [Puts receiver down, also photo, which is placed at R. end of table.] [The room door R. 1 E. is opened by PINE, who shows in SAMUEL BURNS and enters himself* [SAMUEL BURNS is a thin man, looking almost any age from twenty-five to forty, and PASSERS-BY ACT i about 5 feet 5 inches in height. He owns an expressionless face, with lustreless eyes, and a short, thin, neglected beard and moustache. His hair is straw-coloured, and bulges out at the sides. He is obviously a wastrel. His clothes are odd and too small for him, and he wears an old travel- ling cap. His pockets bulge with a variety of impedimenta. He has a habit of carry- ing his arms in front of him, and tucking his hands into the opposite sleeves. He also has a habit of looking on the ground and picking ^tp unconsidered trifles, such as pins. Altogether he cuts a figure pain- fully negative, pathetic, and unattractive, and there is a touch of surprise and alarm in his mild face as he looks at WAVERTON and around the room. [WAVERTON comes down to below chair, L.C. [A little embarrassed clears his throat] It was very kind of you to step up Mr. er my good fellow. BURNS. [Whose voice is thin and high-pitched, R.C.] No 'arm, Mister. It was this 'ere gent as fetched me. [Indicates PINE with a nod. WAVERTON. [Fidgeting and still embarrassed, while PINE stands motionless as if on duty R.] And er by what name am I to address you ? BURNS, My name, do you mean ? ACT i PASSERS-BY 23 WAVERTON. If you'd be so good. BURNS. Burns, as far as I recollect Samuel Burns but nobody calls me nothing. WAVERTON. Oh no nickname or or pet name ? BURNS. Nothing like that, mister unless it's " man." WAVERTON. " Man " ? BURNS. Yes. Sometimes when people give me things they say, " 'Ere, man " [WAVERTON turns aside up L. with a slight groan and rubs his chin PINE nudges BURNS gingerly. PINE. [In a whisper] Take your cap off. BURNS. [/Starting] What, me ? Yes, sir. [Takes his cap off" hastily. [WAVERTON and PINE catch eaeh other's eyes over BURNS' head their embarrassment is unconsciously humorous. WAVERTON. [With sudden asperity] Well, Pine, get along ! PINE. Excuse me, sir, but I don't take you. WAVERTON. You brought this gentleman here. PINE. [Firmly] By your orders, sir. WAVERTON. You presumed to form a certain judg- ment. Give Mr. Burns an opportunity of explain- ing PINE. [Preparing for a moral effort] I'll do my best, sir. [Then to BURNS, after clearing his throat] How came you to fall so low, my good man ? 24 PASSERS-BY ACT i BURNS. Me? Fall? I ain't fallen, sir ! I'm very good on me pins. [ WAVERTON and PINE exchange another eloquent look. PINE. [Nervously] May I speak to you a moment, sir. [He crosses to WAVERTON. [They both walk down L. and away from BURNS. BURNS meanwhile, discovering a pin stuck in the carpet, stoops down and captures it, and sticks it in his ivaistcoat PINE lowers his voice. As I feared, sir, 'opeless. Nighty's coming over presently. You'll find 'im more interestin' a very well-informed, respectable man. WAVERTON. What's the matter with this one ? PINE. He fair gives me the creeps, sir. He doesn't amount to anything at all. He's simply nothing. It's 'orrible. Hadn't I better give him a trifle and let him go? WAVERTON. Certainly not ! We haven't learned anything about him yet. You said you knew the class. I think you're a bit of a fraud, Pine. PINE. He frightens me close to makes me nervous, sir. WAVERTON, Nonsense! That is what comes of being brought up in the iron security of service. The man's quite harmless. PINE. So is a cockroach, sir. WAVERTON. You forget yourself , Pine. The gen tie- ACT i PASSERS-BY 25 man is my guest, and must be suitably entertained. Is there any food in the place ? PINE. There's cold chicken, sir, and ham. WAVERTON. [Turning to BURNS] You'll stay to supper, I hope, Mr. Burns. BURNS. Supper ? me ? 'Ere ? WAVERTON. I hope you'll give me that pleasure. BURNS. 'Scuse me, mister, but if the gentleman would wrap my bit up in a lump of newspaper WAVERTON. That would rob me of the advantage of your agreeable conversation, Burns. You must let me have my way this time, Pine, supper ! PINE. In the kitchen, sir ? WAVERTON. No. Here, of course. [Goes round sofa up L., then down to PINE.] Something on a tray. [To chair, L.C. [PiNE hesitates, then clears table R, and puts tray on sideboard up R. WAVERTON waves him off imperiously. [Exit PINE R. 2 E. [BURNS, after a timid look round, has remained standing, Sit down, Burns. BURNS. Me, mister ? Where ? WAVERTON. Here ! [Pulls chair from writing table to c. [BURNS, with a visible moral effort, sits on the edge of the arm-chair, No, that's not right, [Waves him back] What do you 26 PASSERS-BY ACT i suppose a chair is for? Get your teeth into the damned thing. BURNS. [Gives vent to a squeaking little laugh]. My ! WAVERTON. [Sitting on edge of writing-table] There, you see you're laughing. You're all right. BURNS. [With a touch of vanity} Oh, yes, I'm all right, mister. There's nothing the matter with me. WAVERTON. It's pretty bad out to-night. BURNS. Bad, d'you call it ? Why I've known it snow, an' sleet, an' rain, an' fog, an' freeze all at wunst. It's a wonderful place is London ! WAVERTON. You have a cheerful nature, Burns. BURNS, No good grumbling, mister. WAVERTON. And yet the world doesn't seem to have used you very well ? BURNS. I make no complaints. \Enter PINE to lay the cloth, tohich he takes from drawer in table, R, WAVERTON. You never kick, eh ? BURNS. Me, mister ? No. I'm all for peace and quietness. WAVERTON. [Crosses R, to table] Hear that, Pine ? Mr. Burns has a cheerful nature. He doesn't grum- ble. He makes no complaints and he never kicks. PINE. It's uncanny, sir that's what it is uncanny. WAVERTON. [In a lower voice] I had him laughing just now you missed that ! PINE. I consider I was well out of it, sir. [Exit PINK R. 2 E. ACT i PASSERS-BY 27 WAVERTON. [Sitting on table R.] We get along very well, Burns, you and I. I suppose it is because we don't agree too much. With regard to the weather, for instance, you contradicted my views with re- markable emphasis. Now as to this kicking business, I think you're wrong. If I were in your condition in life I should kick like the devil. I should expect the State, which produced me, to either mend me or end me. BURNS. [Over whose head this speech has passed with mild cheerfulness} You never know yer luck. WAVEETON. An apt quotation, I admit; but I should have thought some employment might have been found some light form of work BURNS. Work, mister ? Work's for workmen. WAVERTON. By Jove, you've said it all, Burns, in one flaming epigram. " Work's for workmen " You interest me extremely, [tiits chair R.c.J Would it be indiscreet of me to ask what you were looking for when I first saw you over by the cab-shelter ? BURNS. Me, mister? Any odd bit. You never know what'll come in 'andy. Take a bit of string, for instance. It's wonderful comfortable to tie up the bottom of your trousers when the weather's sharp. WAVERTON. That's worth knowing. I must try it. BURNS. [Earnestly] Sometimes you'll find some- thing or some one'll give you something as ain't no use Put it by, I say put it by 'Ide it till such time as it comes in 'andy 'Ide it that's business. 28 PASSERS-BY ACT i WAVERTON. But splendid, Burns. You're a true economist. [Enter PINE with butler's tray, on which are chicken and ham, bread and butter, cheese and biscuits, etc, BURNS. [Taking a corkscrew from his pocket] 'Ere, mister, see this corkscrew ? [He hands the corkscrew to WAVERTON and restores to his pocket many mis- cellaneous articles that have come out of it.] [WAVERTON gravely examines corkscrew, then, concealing a smile WAVERTON. It's a well-made corkscrew, Burns, but unfortunately it seems to be broken. BURNS. [Eagerly taking the corkscrew back and re- storing it to his pocket] Broken, mister, as you observe, but it'll come in 'andy. I've carried that corkscrew for two years now. WAVERTON. You see, Pine, Mr. Burns has the true instincts of the collector, and is as thrifty as a Frenchman. He's full of qualities. PINE. It's 'orrible ! WAVERTON. [Pointing to BURNS' breast-pocket] That's a particularly prosperous-looking pocket you have there. BURNS. [With a sly look] That's a bit I saved in case I 'ad no luck for supper. Like to see it, mister ? WAVERTON. [Hastily] No, I think I'd rather not, ACT i PASSERS-BY 29 Burns. [The front door bell is heard ringing . Exit PINE R, 1 E.] Ah ! here comes Nighty. Come and take your place at the table. Damme, I like you ! This will do nicely. [He places a chair at] the table facing audience.] [BURNS rises, goes to WAVERTON, stoops and puts his cap under the chair indicated, which he then occupies. During the following he patiently sits and awaits the turn of affairs. [The door opens, and PINE enters shoiving in NIGHTY. PINE. It's Nighty, sir. WAVES/TON. Good ! Glasses, Pine. PINE. Yes, sir. [Crosses up to sideboard and gets glasses."] WAVERTON. [Shakes hands with NIGHTY, then takes him L.] It's very good of you to come back, Nighty, just to give me a chance of showing that I am not such a surly fellow as you may have thought. NIGHTY. Not at all, guv'nor. Me and my old 'orse was just thinkin' of makin' our way 'ome. It's gettin' very thick outside. WAVERTON. I insist on engaging you and your old horse by the hour. [In a lower voice] I want you to help me entertain that poor devil over there. NIGHTY. "With pleasure, guv'nor. WAVERTON. [Gaily] Good ! And so to supper. [He goes to table.] Will you sit there, Nighty ? [Point- ing to a chair L.C.] NIGHTY. Thank you kindly, guv'nor, I 'ad my 30 PASSERS-BY ACT T supper at the shelter; but I'll 'elp Mr. Pine to wait. WAVEETON. Capital ! and help yourself to whisky, [Crosses to fire-place and throws cigarette in fire.] NIGHTY. [Going up to PINE R. Aside to him] I thought you said he wasn't human ? PINE. I think he's gone dotty. WAVERTON. [Crosses R. and sits E. of table] Ask Mr. Burns what he'll drink, Nighty. [NIGHTY bends down and speaks aside to BURNS. BURNS replies. Then NIGHTY raises his head, his face quivering with suppressed laughter. Well? NIGHTY. He says he could do wiv a drop of four 'alf , guv'nor. WAVERTON, [Inquiringly] " Four 'alf " ? NIGHTY. It's a kind of beer, sir. WAVERTON. Pine, beer for Mr. Burns. PINE. Yes, sir. [Exit R. 2 E. WAVERTON. Do have some butter, Burns. [NIGHTY, noticing that BURNS is not very expert at the table, butters a large piece of bread for him. NIGHTY. [Putting the bread and butter on BURNS' 2>lale] There, that's hearty ! [Seeing that BURNS is employing his fingers with his chicken, NIGHTY puts the knife and fork on his plate as a reminder. Then nudges him. ACT i PASSERS-BY 31 WAVERTON. It's all right, Nighty, Mr. Burns prefers the Oriental method, and I'm not sure that it isn't the better one. [Eats Biscuit?] I'm as hungry as a hunter, [He says this to encouraye BURNS.] Enter PINE with leer. He fills BURNS' glass. NIGHTY. It's the nippy air does it, guv'nor. WAVERTON. Sorry you won't join us. [Motions NIGHTY to chair R.C. NIGHTY. [$ife.] I've just had a reg'lar tuck in of eggs and bacon prime stuff! WAVERTON. You find life worth living, Nighty ? NIGHTY. [Seriously] It's a wonderful gift is life ! [He sits a little away from table. WAVERTON. [Mixes whisky and soda.] But come now honestly if you had had the choice of living or not living, and could have foreseen all you have gone through you'd have refused ? NIGHTY. Honestly I shouldn't, guv'nor. WAVERTON. And you, Burns ? BURNS. I never refuse anything, I don't ! I make it a rule ! WAVERTON. [Looks up with a smile at PINE, ivho shudders and turns away] Pine, give Mr. Nighty some whisky. [PiNE does so. [Raising his glass] Gentlemen, your health ! I drink to my new friends, NIGHTY. Here's to you, guv'nor. [Drinks. WAVERTON. Burns, you're a great man ; you eat well, and I hope you sleep well. 32 PASSERS-BY ACT i BURNS. Not always, mister. The other night I dreamt I was choppin' wood. NIGHTY, [To BURNS] Work isn't much in your way. BURNS. I ain't strong, NIGHTY. Wasn't your father a workman ? BURNS. No, mate. 'E had something the matter with 'is chest. 'Ow 'e used ter corf ! My ! WAVERTON. And your mother ? BURNS. She's dead too. She was always ailin'. 'Ip disease they called it. [He drinks. NIGHTY. [Aside to WAVERTON] Lord ! They breed dogs better. WAVERTON. [Nods. To BURNS, sympathetically in a low voice] And then there was only you ? BURNS. [As if dimly remembering] Yes, only me. I was abart eleven then, and sickly. I started walking. I was always pretty all right on me pins. [He is quite unconscious of the pathos of this. [There is silence for a few moments. WAVERTON and NIGHTY exchange looks. Well, cheero ! [He drinks his beer and goes on eating. [WAVERTON rises and crosses L. for the cigars, which he gets from draiver in cabinet. WAVERTON. You're something of a politician, Nighty. NIGHTY. Oh, I wouldn't say that, guv'nor. WAVERTON. A thinker then you have ideas ! NIGHTY, Us old 'orse cabmen has lots o' time for thinking in these days o' taxis and the like, ACT i PASSERS-BY 33 WAVERTON. [Gives the box to PINE] Pine, cigars for Mr. Nighty and Mr. Burns. [PiNE offers the box to NIGHTY. NIGHTY. No, thank you, Mr. Pine. [PINE, with an air of grave disapproval, offers the box to BURNS,, BURNS. [Hesitating] Wot, me ? My ! [He takes cigar and then from his pocket a piece of paper lie rolls up the cigar and puts the parcel back in his pocket.] [PiNE puts cigars away on sideboard. WAVERTON. [Sits L.C. Encouragingly] Well, about your ideas, Nighty ? NIGHTY. [Confused] Oh, I ain't got many, guv'nor but if I'd been a rich man and educated I think I'd 'a gone into Parliament ! [Laughs] Me, a Member of Parliament ! I got a cheek, 'aven't I ? [He is slightly " mellow " with the whisky he has drunk. [PiNE gathers supper things together on tray. WAVERTON. I'm sure we've many less intelligent, Nighty, NIGHTY, Sometimes driving 'ome I make a speech out loud, and my old 'orse's ears go flop-flop until I think he understands and is trying to say " 'ear ! 'ear ! " [Exit PINE with tray, R, 2 E. WAVERTON. Capital ! And what do you say, Nighty ? NIGHTY, [Very confused] ^Oh, come, guv'nor, I couldn't. 34 PASSERS-BY ACT i WAVERTON. Get along, You're all right, Nighty. We're all tiled in here. NIGHTY. [/Smiling and wriggling] But really, guv'nor [BURNS makes a parcel of bi'ead, celery, &c, WAVERTON. I want to hear your views. [Beckons him. NIGHTY. [Draws chair close up to WAVERTON.] My views ? That's easy, guv'nor. Every child born, boy, is entitled in abundance to the air, light and water that Nature provides. [He taps WAVERTON familiarly on the knee.] It's the duty of the State to see the children aint done out of their rights. Then again, the State demands children in quantity very well, it's the duty of the State to see that the quality's all right. Every child is entitled to 'ealthy parents. A 'uman incapable [WAVERTON raises a warning finger.] Yes, poor bloke ! It aint 'is fault. The thing is, don't breed 'em like that ! The future of the race is with the children. Legislate for the children. WAVERTON. Bravo, Nighty. [They grasp his hand.] You're a Statesman. NIGHTY. [Confused] Thank you, guv'nor. BURNS. [Gets cap from under the chair. Rises, and goes down L. of table R.] Well, good-night all ! WAVERTON. But you're not leaving us so soon, Burns ? Enter PINE, R. 2 E. BURNS. I want to get along to the Embankment. ACT i PASSERS-BY 35 I never miss the Embankment when I'm in London. There's always a bit of life there, and sometimes they give you things. WAVERTON. Every class has its social centre, you see, Nighty. One moment, Burns. Pine ! PINE. Yes, sir ? WAVERTON. One of my old overcoats for Mr. Burns a warm one. PINE. [Making a wry face] Yes, sir. [Exit R. 1 E. leaving door open. WAVERTON. [Walks to the window] It's terribly black out there, Burns. You'll never find your way. [The fog outside has grown to be dense black, BURNS. I'd find my way blindfold to the Embank- ment. NIGHTY. [Goes to window and looks out anxiously] Me an' my old 'orse'll 'ave all our work cut out gettin' to Kennington. WAVERTON. [Up c.] That reminds me, you and your old horse are mine to-night. [He presses a coin on him. NIGHTY. No, really guv'nor I WAVERTON. Please ! [Enter PINE with overcoat. WAVERTON joins him down R, and takes coat from him, then exit PINE leaves door open. Now, Burns, let me help you with your coat. BURNS. Oh, I say ! WAVERTON. [Helping BURNS on with the coat] Just to keep the cold out. 36 PASSERS-BY ACT i BURNS, [Admiring himself in the overcoat] My! [WAVERTON presses a coin into BURNS' hand. BURNS looks at it and even his remote heart seems vaguely touched. WAVERTON, [To avoid being thanked, speaks quickly, shakes hands with BURNS] Good night, BURNS. Good night ! Thanks, all ! WAVERTON, Come and see me again whenever things are bad, Remember you have a friend here. Good night. BURNS. [Goes to the door. He is then visited by an impulse and he turns to WAVERTOX] Good luck, mister ! [Exit BURXS R. 1 E. NIGHTY. [Crosses down R. behw table. At door] Good night, Guv'nor. God bless you ! WAVERTOX, Thank you, Nighty, and look in some- times and see if I have a job for } 7 ou, remember we're neighbours, Good night. [Exit NIGHTY shuts door. [The smile dies out of WAVERTON'S face. He walks to window, looks out and shivers. He comes down to his writing-table, sits, and looks over some paper s.~\ Enter PINE R. 2 E. Folds cloth and puts in drawer in table. [Without looking v.p] The people who are at home to-night are lucky, Pine. PINE. Yes, sir. It's dangerous to be abroad. Can't see your hand in front of your face, [Pause] The young person standing in the doorway seems frightened out of 'er life ACT i PASSERS-BY 37 WAVERTON. [Quickly] What young person ? PINE. Young woman, sir. Respectable, I fancy, Came out of a 'bus that was on the pavement just now going the wrong way and frightened to turn. She's coughing something dreadful fog's got into her chest, I suppose. WAVERTON. You should have asked her in. It's a frightful night for a woman to be out alone. Go and . . . Wait, I'll go myself ! [Exit R. 1 E. [PiNE puts chairs tidy. He goes to the open door and listens, then exit K, 2 E. A WOMAN'S coughing is heard. It approaches. Enter WAVERTON and MARGARET SUMMERS, She is a slender woman of 25, a little above medium height. The plainness of her dress fails to conceal the attractiveness of her figure ; she has a beautiful face and wears a proud and reserved exp)-ession. Her face is not seen on her entrance, however, as she is wearing a hat that comes over her eyes and a thick veil. She continues to cough pain/idly after entering. WAVERTON shuts door at entrance. He quickly gets her a glass of water from the sideboard. MARGARET lifts her veil sufficiently to drink. WAVERTON, [Pulls chair out R of table. Gently] Do sit down. [MARGARET sits ami breathes heavily, but ceases to cough. Pause, MARGARET sighs deeply. You are a little better ? 38 PASSERS-BY ACT i MARGARET. Yes thank you. [WAVERTON starts on hearing her voice and looks at her keenly. She lowers her head. I am all right. I will go now. [She coughs slightly, then rises. WAVERTON. No, no you must rest for a moment ! That abominable fog got into your lungs. It's poisonous ! MARGARET. I would rather go now please. [Goes L, a little. WAVERTON. Wait ! wait ! You can't go out into that [pointing through window] London blindfold ! Appalling thought ! The monster sightless ! You can hear him growling, MARGARET. I'm not frightened ! I'm going really I know my way. Thank you for your kindness. Good night ! [He goes down quickly between her and the door intercepting her. She falls lack, so that they are some paces apart. There is a slight pause. They stand looking at each other. [Her breast heaving] Why ? WAVERTOX. [By door R. 1 E.] You and I can't part like this ! MARGARET, [Down R.] We must. WAVERTON. [In a low voice'] Let me see your face. ACT i PASSERS-BY 39 MARGARET. No. WAVERTON. I ask it with with the deepest respect, MARGARET. I don't want you to see my face, WAVERTON. I know your face as well as you know mine. MARGARET. Please let me go now for for both our sakes, [Slight pause. WAVERTON. You are right. When a woman wishes to conceal something a man can only [He walks to the door.~\ MARGARET. Conceal? [At the suggestion of concealment, she starts with indignation. Then she impul- sively raises her veil and pushes her hat slightly back, fully revealing her face. WAVERTON, with his hand on the door- knob, turns and sees her. WAVERTOX. [In a low voice] Margaret ! Margaret Summers ! Did you imagine for a moment that I wouldn't know you ? MARGARET. [Her breast heaving"] I I hoped not. WAVERTON. You knew me ? MARGARET. Directly I heard your voice downstairs. I wouldn't have come up, only I feared the fog would kill me, and and I don't want to die. WAVERTON. But why in God's name, Margaret, why wish to avoid me ? [Slight pause She is silent] After six years. Why ? [Impatiently] Why ? MARGARET. I knew you didn't want to see me. 40 PASSERS-BY ACT i WAVERTON. [Doum R.] But I did. Good Heavens I how you wrong me. I advertised for you I em- ployed agents to look for you for months years and you tell me now Please sit down. MARGARET. I I want to go now. WAVERTON. [Firmly] I beg "you to do as I ask. You are still faint and ill. [She sits chair L. of table R. Now, tell me, why did you leave my step-sister's house ? MARGARET. She turned me away. WAVERTON. [Surprised and shocked] She turned you away ? MARGARET. Yes. WAVERTON. [Sits R. of table R.] She told me you were called away that you had been engaged to a place abroad. MARGARET. It wasn't true. WAVERTON. You mean she lied. She would ! But for a time I believed her. Then I began to doubt, for I grew to know her better. MARGARET. I have no right to speak unkindly of Lady Hurley. WAVERTON. I have. What excuse did she give ? MARGARET. None. She said I would understand. WAVERTON. [After a slight pause] She had been spying on u?. MARGARET. Possibly, and in the circumstances she didn't consider me a proper governess for her ACT i PASSERS-BY 41 children, [Movement from WAVERTON] Any other mother would have done the same. WAVERTON. She shouldn't have lied to me. MARGARET, She thought it her duty. WAVERTON. She must have known the fault was all mine. MARGARET. No, Peter it was ours. WAVERTON. All mine for I was two years older and should have been wiser. But I was in love and thoughtless, Margaret. MARGARET. [Laying R. hand on muff] We were both in love and thoughtless, Peter. WAVERTON. [In a low voice] And the Spring was in our hearts. [He takes her R. hand] Margaret ! MARGARET. Don't ! I have a work- woman's hands now. [She withdraws her hand.] WAVERTON. Why didn't you write to me? Why didn't you give me a chance ? MARGARET, I wrote to you twice. WAVERTON. [Startled] How do you mean you wrote to me ? MARGARET. The first time I gave a post office address the second time the lodgings I am still in. WAVERTON. You're sure of this ? MARGARET. Absolutely ! WAVERTON [Rises slowly] Margaret, I never had your letters, [There is a pause, while they both look at each other. 42 PASSERS-BY ACT T MARGARET. [JRises] I addressed them to your sister's house. WAVERTON. Then . , . then , . . it's horrible ! . . . Amelia, my step-sister, must have MARGARET. [Quietly] You mustn't say it. It isn't fair ; letters sometimes get lost in the post. WAVERTON. That woman ! I've forgiven her much. This I'll never forgive. MARGARET. She did what she thought right. WAVERTON. And you never knew of my in- quiries ? MARGARET. No. It's so easy to be lost in London. WAVERTON. Margaret 1 My poor Margaret ! MARGARET. Naturally, Lady Hurley gave me no reference. I had no chance of getting another place, and I had no relation living. [Movement from WAVERTON.] I do sewing for the shops now ; have done for a long time. I make seven shillings a day. WAVERTON. You are wonderful ! MARGARET. Oh, no ! I couldn't have done it for myself. WAVERTON. [Slovily] There was some one else ? MARGARET. [Slowly] Yes there there was [Then pathetically .] Oh, let me go please let me go now ! I'm not strong enough to bear any more WAVERTON, [R. of table, R.] Tell me be frank who else was there ? MARGARET, [L. corner of table R., slowly] There was the child. ACT T PASSERS-BY 43 WAVERTON. The child ? Your child MARGARET. Yes. WAVERTON. Oh, then you're MARGARET. Our child, Peter. WAVERTON, Our child ? MARGARET. Yes a little boy. WAVERTON, [In a low voice] Margaret ! MARGARET. [Suffering 'goes L. to fire-place, then goes round sofa and works up L. and round to c.] You shouldn't have made me tell you. It hurts. Arid you needn't be embarrassed for me, Peter. I'm not ashamed, and I've no remorse, He's my child. I've won him, and he's mine only. He needs no one but me, and he he's the very breath of my heart. And now forget please forget that I've told you. It's been strange and wonderful seeing you again but [c. WAVERTON. [L. of table R.] Wait, Margaret ! You don't understand I'm not embarrassed only only full of wonder. I want you to tell me so much more, What is the boy's name ? MARGARET. Peter. WAVERTON. [Visibly touched] Peter ? [Goes up R. to L.] Look at it out there ; it's awful ! | Slight pause\ Where is the boy now ? MARGARET. [Down ly table R.C.] He's at home with my landlady. She always puts him to bed when I work late. WAVERTON. [Comes down L.C.] Margaret, I I don't know what to say. It' I seem awkward and 44 PASSERS-BY ACT i shy, you must try and understand and forgive me. I can't realise in a moment all that this means the change it makes in one's sympathies and view of life. [MARGARET coughs, lie walks to bell and rings, then says firmly] One thing is certain, you can't go out into that fog. MARGARET, Peter, I must. I must go home. WAVERTON. [Firmly] It's a practical impossibility besides, you're as pale as a ghost. MARGARET. [Faintly] I I'm all right, Peter. WAVERTON. I know better. If I can't think for myself, at least I can think for you, [Gently forces her into chair R.C. Enter PINE R. 2 E, WAVERTON. [To PINE] Make me a shakedown on the sofa and bring a dressing suit. PINE. Yes, sir. [Crosses L. up stage. WAVERTOX. And Pine. [PixE stops] Has Mrs. Parker gone to bed ? PINE. Not yet, sir. WAVERTON. Send her to me. PINE. Yes, sir. [Exit PINE. MARGARET. I'm really all right now and WAVERTON. [Thoroughly himself noiv, and speaking with decision] You are not going out into that fog to-night. You are going to have my room. Fortu- nately there's a woman in the house my old cook- ACT i PASSERS-BY 45 housekeeper. [Goes L.] She will look after you in the morning. MARGARET. [Rises] I mustn't stay Peter I'm so tired I should sleep late. [Warn curtain.] WAVERTON [Cheerily] So much the better. Enter MRS. PARKER R. up. WAVERTON. Mrs. Parker, I'm going to have a shake- down here to-night. This lady who has been caught in the fog will have my room. You'll see that she's comfortable, please. MRS. PARKER. Yes, sir. [Exit MRS. PARKER, L. MARGARET. But my landlady and the child would be alarmed. WAVERTON. True, you must write a message. [Up to window and looks out.] You see it's hopeless. [MARGARET goes to window and looks out.] [Goes to desk.] It shall be sent first thing in the morning. [She sits at writing-table. He arranges paper for her to write and discreetly walks away to c. Pause. He is thoughtful.] Let me see the boy must now be ? MARGARET. Six next April. WAVERTON [Still cheerfully] Six next April ! Six next April ! Enter PINE L. with the things ordered, which he spreads on couch [MARGARET has now finished ivriting WAVER- TON goes to her. She hands him the message. 46 PASSERS-BY ACT i [To PINE, handing him telegram.] This must go the very first thing in the morning. PINE. Yes, sir. [MARGARET rises, goes to piano, and picks up her hat. WAVERTON, If the fog has lifted send it by a taxi. If not telegraph it through the telephone. PINE. Yes sir, WAVERTON. [To MARGARET] That door on the left where the light is. Get some sleep you need it. To-morrow we'll talk. [MARGARET looks out of window through curtains in a last hope that the fog has cleared. MARGARET. [Faintly] Thank you, Peter Good night ! WAVERTON. [Taking her hand] Bless you. Good night ! [Exit MARGARET, L. PINE. A nything else, sir ? WAVERTON. Yes another log. [PiNE puts log on fire, then goes round top of writing-table to c. PINE. Good night, sir, WAVERTON. [Mechanically] Good night, Pine. [He is deep in thought.] [Exit PINE, R. 2 E. [WAVERTON goes over R. and switches off" electric light ; then goes L. to fire-place and takes a cigarette case from his pocket. Finding it empty, however, lie takes a cigarette from a silver boic on the writing-table, and is about ACT i PASSERS-BY 47 to light it when he notices the framed photo- graph of Beatrice, which is also on the table. He takes it up and looks at it thoughtfully while he reclines on the sofa ; then he gently replaces it on the ivriting- table and sinks into a deep meditation. The stage is now lighted only by the red glow from thejire, CURTAIN. SCENE : Same as Act I. It is 9 o'clock on the following morning. On the curtain rising the room is in a dim light. WAVERTON is asleep on the impro- vised bed. A slight pause after the curtain is raised ; then a ringing and knocking at the hall door is heard. WAVERTON is dis- turbed. He raises himself on his elbow WAVERTON. W'hat the devil ? [He listens. The distant sounds of a door being opened and shut and of voices are heard. Then there is silence. WAVERTON turns over as if to sleep again. The door is cautiously and silently opened and enter PINE, R. 1. E., with letters which he places on writing~table. PINE. [In a low voice] Are you still asleep, sir ? WAVERTON. Yes. What is it ? PINE. It's as I feared, sir. I 'ad a foreboding also a dream. WAVERTON. [Sitting up and speaking crossly] Pine, 48 ACT IT PASSERS-BY 49 if you are to stay on with me you must discourage fears, forebodings and dreams. PINE. Very good, sir. WAVERTON. [With a huge yawn] You know very well the morning isn't my best time. Now, out with it! What's the matter? [With anxiety] Mrs. Summers hasn't gone ? PINE. No, sir. It's that 'orrible man again. WAVERTON. What horrible man ? PINE. [R. end of sofa] Burns, sir. WAVERTON. You must also learn to speak respect- fully of my friends. PINE. Yes, sir. WAVERTON. What does Mr. Burns want at this hour of the morning ? [Looks at clock on mantel.] Breakfast, I suppose. PINE. He was brought by a policeman, sir, WAVERTON, A policeman ? This is serious. PINE. I knew you'd be disappointed in him, sir. WAVERTON, What's he been doing ? PINE. He's been getting himself hurt, sir. WAVERTON. Hurt ? Poor old Burns ! Draw up the blinds. [PiNE does so, revealing a bright winter morn- ing. WAVERTON gets out of bed, still wearing his dressing-suit, and puts on his slippers. Is he badly hurt ? PINE. He can walk all right, sir. [Sarcastically] He was always good on his pins. D 50 PASSERS-BY ACT n WAVERTON. Yes I remember. Bring him in. PINE. And the policeman too, sir ? WAVERTON. No. Give him half a crown and send him away. Damn it ! This isn't a public institution, PINE. [Going down R. and speaking " half aloud "] It seems to appertain to that nature. WAVERTON. [Sharply] What's that ? PINE, [Unblushing] I was saying I'm sorry your privacy should be disturbed, sir. WAVERTON. That's my affair. [Exit PINE, R. 1 E. [WAVEKTON goes to the windoiv, throivs it open and breathes deeply of the fresh air. Distant noise of traffic, and door being closed. WAVERTON closes ivindoiv, Enter BURNS and PINE, B. 1 E. PINE closes door. [Comes doivn quickly] Ah, Burns, my poor fellow, what can I do for you ? BURNS. [With some insistence] You say to me, you say, " Come an' see me again," you say. " Wen things is bad." WAVERTON. My very words. You will notice another quality in Mr. Burns, Pine ; he has an excellent memory. BURNS. [R.] Things is bad, so I come. [lie points to PINE.] That gent 'e tries to stop me at the door. [This a little vindictively] 'Is words was " It's a bit too thick ! " WAVERTON. [By chair L.C. sternly] Pine ! ACT ii PASSERS-BY 51 PINE. [Down R.] I 'adn't understood the invitation was to be considered serious, sir. WAVERTON. Is it true you are hurt, Burns ? BURNS. I was run over in the fog by a milk cart, mister leastways knocked down. WAVERTON. My poor fellow sit down! That chair, Pine. [PiNE crosses behind table R. and gives BURNS a chair. BURNS sits R.C. WAVERTON lights a cigarette. PINE. [Sehind table R. in a low voice to BURNS] Your cap ! BURNS, [Who has apparently grown to reciprocate PINE'S dislike] Oh blow ! [He removes his cap however* WAVERTON. [Going to BURNS] Any bones broken ? BURNS. I didn't 'ear anything, but me side 'urts me 'urts me bad 'ere. [Indicating his left side. WAVERTON. Ah, I see the mark on your overcoat, where the wheel struck you. Poor fellow ! [Cheerily Well, we must get you along to the hospital. BURNS. [Alarmed] 'Orspital! Not me! That's what the cop say w'en 'e foun' me restin' on a door- step. I don't 'old with 'orspitals. I've 'eard tales about 'em. They're not well spoke of. [Pause. [WAVERTON is in a grave difficulty, goes up L.C. a little. PINE rather pleased, watches him. [Anxiously and with emphasis] You say to me, you say " Come an' see me again" you say WAVERTON. [Turning and interrupting him and 52 PASSERS-BY ACT n only by an effort subduing his impatience] Yes, yes I have a vivid recollection. [PINE'S face breaks fully into a smile. He can scarcely hold back his laughter. WAVERTON looks up and catches him. PINE covers his grinning mouth with his hand, [Icily] Pine [ Motions to him and they go down L.] you appear to be in pain. PINE. [Composing himself] It was nothing, sir, just a spasm. WAVERTON. "When you have recovered from your spasm you will take charge of Mr. Burns. PINE. [Flabbergasted] Me take charge? Excuse me, sir, but WAVERTON. [Down L. turning his /ace from PINE to conceal a smile'] I'm disappointed in you, Pine. I thought you a philanthropist ; but it appears you are only one of those who would probe the wounds of the afflicted with inquisitive fingers, and do nothing to heal them. PINE. [L.C.] Oh, I'm all for the poor, sir, in reason ; but this one's an exception. There's something h'ominous about him. WAVERTON. Well, he's now a prote"g4 of the house, and he's been hurt, so I recommend him to your care. [Crosses up to R. PINE. [Eagerly] Shall I get your things, sir ? WAVERTON. [Going to door, R. 2 E.] No ; I'll manage by 'myself. You stay here and take care of Mr. Burns. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 53 Ring up Dr. Wharton and ask him to come round at once. [To BURNS cheerily] You're all right, Burns, Pine'll look after you. [Exit WAVERTON, R. 2 E. [PiNE looks at BURNS and BURNS looks at PINE. There is no friendship in their eyes. PINE. This is what conies of doing a kindness. BURNS. 'Oo did a kindness ? PINE, Who got you your supper last night ? BURNS. 'Oo lost me the Embankment ? PINE. Bah ! You make me shiver, [He goes to telephone. BURNS. An' got me 'urt ! PINE. Don't talk to me ! BURNS. 'Is words to you was: "Take care of Mr. Burns," PINE. [Ignoring this takes receiver] Seven, three, double five, one, Gerrard. [Pause. BURNS. [As one who has certain established rights] I could do with a cup o' corfie. PINE. [Into telephone] Could I speak to Dr. Whar- ton, please ? . . . All rightg [Pause. BURNS. [With insistence] I could do with a cup o' corfie. PINE. [Entirely ignoring BURNS and using his best voice] Is that you, Dr. Wharton? Mr. Waverton wishes me to present his compliments, sir, and to ask if you would kindly come round as soon as possible. [Pause] Oh, no, thank you, sir, Mr. Waverton is in perfect health, but there is a person who has received 54 PASSERS-BY ACT n some slight bin jury in a street h' accident. A sort of man in a manner o' speakin'. Thank you, sir ! [Replaces receiver and begins to fold bedclothes. BURNS. If you 'adn't stopped me I'd a' got to the Embankment and then to the "Salvation Shelter." I'd a' been drinkin' a nice cup o' corfie by now 'ot. PINE. And been put on a couple of hours' hard work afterwards. BURNS. [Quickly] That's where you're wrong, see ? I'd a' been let off 'cos o' bein' delicate. [Slight pause] You've been unlucky to me. PINE. [Goes c. and up to BURNS with rug over his arm] I suppose, my good man, you've never heard the word "gratitude" used, have you? BURNS. I'm no scollard. PINE. [Looking down at him with deliberate pity] I gathered as much, I understand your case. I think I've 'eard it called arrested mental development. BURNS, Is that Latting ? PINE, It means a kind of smear [He is going L, with the rug, when enter MAR- GARET ~L,,fidli/ dressed for going away. MARGARET. [Up L, to PINE] Good morning ! PINE. [Up c.] Good morning, ma'am. MARGARET, AVill you please tell Mr. Waverton PINE. He'll be here in a few moments, ma'am. MARGARET. [Anxious] Did my message go ? PINE, Yes, ma'am, at seven o'clock. MARGARET. You're sure ? ACT ii PASSERS-BY 55 PINE. Yes, ma'am. MARGARET, [Relieved] Thank you. [Then she sees BURNS.] PINE, This person has been in a street h'accident. BURNS, I been hurt. MARGARET. [The mother instinct to the surface] Oh, you poor fellow. What happened ? [Goes to him, BURNS. It was a big 'orse an' cart. [lie puts his hand to his side.] MARGARET. And you're hurt in the side and there's a wound on your forehead, [Turns quickly to PINE.] Do bring some warm water and a towel. [Puts muff' and gloves on writing-table. PINE. [With mock commiseration] Certainly, miss. Poor chap ! [Exit PINE L, BURNS, I could do with a cup o' corfie. MARGARET. Of course, you shall have it. I'm sure that Mr, Waverton BURNS. That's the other one, ain't it ? MARGARET. He's the gentleman of the house. BURNS. 'E's all right ; it's this one that's agin me. MARGARET. Oh, nonsense ! No one's against you. I'm sure everybody must be sorry for you. BURNS. [Resentfully] The one that's gone for the water [PiNE enters L. with a basin and small towel] tried to stop me comiu' in. 'Im ! [Pointing to PINE.] ^MARGARET takes basin and towel from PINE and puts them on table K. She then dips 56 PASSERS-BY ACT n towel in ivater and attends to bruise on BURNS' forehead. PINE. [Standing by with affected sympathy] Poor chap! MARGARET, [To PIXE] Do you think you could manage to get him a cup of coffee ? PINE. Yes, miss. [With ill-concealed sarcasm.] He's to have everything he wants. Is there anything else you fancy, my poor man ? BURNS, A slice o' bread and butter thick. PINE. [Affect ing the sick room manner and employ- ing a low and pleasant voice] It shall have hatten- tion. [He tiptoes down R. behind table] The doctor'll be here presently miss. [The hall door bell is heard. Exit PINE R. 1 E. closing door. MARGARET, [n. of BURNS] Is that better ? BURNS. It's abart the same. MARGARET. It's a pity your hair is so thick. BURNS. It's always been like that. MARGARET. But I think it would look nicer if it was cut a little shorter. BURNS. I don't 'old with making changes. MARGARET. Well, of course, it's your hair. BURNS. [Uncompromisingly] Yes, it's my 'air. Enter PINE and NIGHTY R. 1 E. NIGHTY has made his top hat very shiny, and has a new pair of yellow gloves. [Exit PINE R. 2 E. [NIGHTY shuts door R. 1 E. behind him. NIGUTY. Good mornm", Miss ! ACT ii PASSERS-BY 57 MARGARET. Good morning ! NIGHTY. Good morning, Burns ! BURNS, Mornin' ! NIGHTY. [Down R.] Sorry to 'ear you've been in trouble. Enter PINE R. 2 E. with coffee and bread and butter. BURNS. I'd a been all right if that bloke 'adn't stopped me goin' to the Embankment. MARGARET. [Taking coffee, etc., from PINE] Here's your cup of coffee, Mr. Burns. [Smiling, aside to NIGHTY] I think he's more wounded in spirit than body. [Gives PINE basin, etc.] NIGHTY. [Taking PINE aside R,] Hadn't I better wait outside ? [MARGARET goes to desk for muff" and gloves, then up to windoiv, PINE. Lord, no ! [Bitterly] This is no longer a gentleman's home ; it's "come one, come all" as you might say. -You're all right, the guvnor's taken you to his heart. As for that Burns, he's his ewe lamb. I'm the only one to suffer, I'm put to take care of that. [Pointing scornfully at BURNS,] NIGHTY. [Secretly amused] Bear up, Mr. Pine, bear up ! PINE, [Earnestly} Mark my words, Nighty Enter WAVERTON R. 2 E. lie sees MARGARET/?^ who is up L. c. WAVERTON. Ah, Margaret, good morning. MARGARET. [Shaking hands] Good morning. 58 PASSERS-BY ACT n WAVERTON. [Down L. c.] Glad to see you've break- fasted, Burns. I haven't. Hello, Nighty, you are a swell. NIGHTY. [Down R. grinning] Thought I'd brush meself up a bit, in case you 'ad a job for me, guv'nor. WAVERTON. [Laughing] Oh, of course, you're on the staff now. I'll find you a job presently, but first we must get Burns on the big couch in the Library. NIGHTY. [Going to BURNS.] 'Ere, give me your arm. [He takes BURNS by the arm and leads him up to door R. 2. Easy does it. PINE, [As they pass him.} Poor chap ! [Exit BURNS and NIGHTY R. 2 E. WAVERTON. You telephoned to Dr. Wharton, Pine ? PINE. Yes, sir, 'e's coming. [Exit with basin R. 2 E. WAVERTON. [Goes up to door R. 2 E. and speaks ojf through door] Pine, Nighty had better bring his cab over and wait for Mrs. Summers. PINE. [Off] Very good, sir. [WAVERTON shuts door R. 2 E. MARGARET. [Coming down] Good-bye, Peter. WAVERTON, Sit down, my dear. MARGARET. I really must go now, Peter. I have my work to do. I only want to thank you first for WAVERTON. [Interrupting her] Ssh ! Ssh ! [Takes her muff" and wrap from her and places them on table R.] [She sits chair L.c, He is very thoughtful] Margaret, ACT ii PASSERS-BY 59 now that I've found you I want you to let me be a friend to you, MARGARET. [Embarrassed] But Peter of course. WAVERTON. [L. of table R.] I want your permission to try and make up a little for all you have gone through. MARGARET. You are very kind. But I have gone through nothing that hasn't been of good to me. You needn't trouble about us, Peter. [She smiles] We're in harbour, now. WAVERTON. You mean you and and little Peter ? MARGARET. [Still smiling] He and I are all right and I am proud perhaps too proud. Pride is my besetting sin, you know. WAVERTON. I know it is, and I'm a little frightened of it. But but you won't refuse to let me help you. [He says this pleadingly. MARGARET. I I think you must let me go on in my own way. WAVERTON. [Turning away from her and ^v^th a touch of disappointment in his voice~\ It's natural that you should take this attitude, but it makes me think you hate me and I I don't quite deserve that. [Goes n. a little L. of table. MARGARET. [Lifting her face suddenly brimming over tvith affection] Hate you ! Oh, Peter ! [WAVERTON turns back to her quickly. WAVERTON. Then if you don't hate me you'll let me help you with the boy. He'll need properly bringing up. 60 PASSERS-BY ACT n MARGARET. [Rather coldly] I'm doing my best, Peter. WAVERTON. [c.] I know and you're an angel but I can do so much too in my way. I have the means and the leisure, A boy needs a man friend. And his best friend should be his father. MARGARET. [Firmly] He's my boy, Peter. WAVERTONI [With equal firmness] He's our boy. [Their eyes meet slight pause MARGARET rises] I want to see him. MARGARET. [Distrustfully, imconsciously her hand on the photograph of BEATRICE, which is on the desk against which she stands] Oh, you shall see him ! But but whom shall 1 tell him you are ? [Looking at him.] WAVERTON. [Flushing slightly] Tell him for the present damn it, he's only a baby, tell him that I am his mother's and his own best friend. MARGARET. [Picks up photograph] Very well, I'll tell him. WAVERTON. [Thoughtfully] And, Margaret there's much to be considered. For one thing I really can't allow you to continue working as you do, [Goes down R. a little. MARGARET. [Quickly] Why not ? WAVERTON. It's only fair and reasonable and just that I should MARGARET. [In her embarrassment holding the photo- graph in both hands] Peter, I have two priceless things in the world my child and my independence. I shall cling desperately to them both. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 61 WAVERTON. [Gently, as he goes to her c.] My dear, can't you be generous and help me to win one priceless thing my self-respect. Now do put that picture down and talk sense. [He stretches his hand for the photograph. MARGARET. [Looking at the photograph before re- leasing it] What a pretty face ! [WAVERTON takes photograph and glances at it. WAVERTON. Yes. [He is rather embarrassed] Perhaps perhaps it would be best to tell you who it is, Her name is Beatrice Dainton, She is an orphan, and a niece of Lord Hurley. My sister chaperones her and Beatrice and I are engaged. [He is not looking at MARGARET when he makes this announcement. lie goes round top of writing-table, replaces photograph, and then goes down to f re-place.] [MARGARET starts and turns pale. The news given wounds her deeply, but she is deter- mined not to show it. WAVERTON now speaks quickly, to cloak his embarrass- ment. Now let's get back to what we were saying, and do let me beg of you, my dear, to be sensible, MARGARET. [Bravely holding her emotion in check and speaking rapidly, her back turned to him] I'm quite sensible, Peter, and nothing you can say will change my point of view. You may call it pride or a spirit of foolish independence but but there it is. We'll go our way and come out all right ; but our way the way of my little boy and me isn't your way, Peter and 62 PASSERS-BY ACT n though you mean to be kind and sweet I know you do [She suddenly turns away to fight her emotion and walks to the piano], WAVERTON. [Looking after her wonderingly and going L.C.] Margaret! [Inhere is a pause while MARGARET recovers her self-control. Then she comes down, her face quite composed. MARGARET, [c. In almost conventional tones'] We must part now, Peter thank you for all your kind- ness WAVERTON. [L.C.] Iin afraid I've said something to hurt you. MARGARET. [Perfectly self-possessed] Indeed no I assure you, I was very interested about your engage- ment, because because I, too, am engaged. WAVERTON. [Amazed and displeased] You en- gaged ! MARGARET. [Simply] Yes, Peter. [If WAVERTON were not angry he would $us- pect she is not speaking the truth. WAVERTON. To whom ? MARGARET, To a man a man who is doing well in business, WAVERTON. What's his name ? MARGARET. Henry, WAVERTON. Henry what ? MARGARET. Henry [the slightest hesitation while she invents the name] Henry Robinson. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 63 WAVERTON. [With a bad attempt at indifference] Oh, really ! MARGARET. Yes. [She secretly gives him a sidelong glance, WAVERTON. [Lamely] Seems a funny thing to do to get engaged. MARGARET. Why? WAVERTON. Oh, well one would have thought you would have waited. MARGARET. For what, Peter ? WAVERTON. I mean I thought you had devoted your life to the boy. MARGARET. Perhaps I did it for his sake. [There is a pause. WAVERTON fidgets about, frowning. WAVERTON. Well, I I wish you joy with all my heart. MARGARET. As I do you, Peter. [Slight pause. Suddenly she offers him her handfranldy] Good-bye. WAVERTON. [Taking her hand] You'll bring the boy to see me now this morning. Nighty can wait for you. MARGARET. [Withdraioing her hand] It's so useless. It can lead to nothing good, and might make the child dissatisfied. [Picks up her muff and wrap from table R. WAVERTON. [Disappointed] All right, Margaret only I don't like to talk of it it makes me so self- conscious this youngster of yours I should have liked to see him liked it very much. 64 PASSERS-BY ACT n [Goes up c. facing up. A movement towards him by MARGARET ; then she restrains herself. Pause WAVERTON leans against piano, a sly smile suddenly lights his face> but he doesn't let her see it. MARGARET goes to door R. You needn't fear my being disappointed, if the boy happens to be plain, Margaret. MARGARET. [Comes L. a little, indignant] Plain ! Peter plain ! WAVERTON. [Comes doivn c.] Children sometimes improve, and after all " handsome is as handsome " MARGARET, [ With much indignation] Peter plain ! He's a perfectly beautiful child. WAVERTON. [Calmly] Ah, a mother would natur- ally MARGARET. [Going quickly to door] You shall see for yourself. I'll be about twenty minutes. [Exit MARGARET quickly R. 1 E. "WAYERTOST. [Calling after her through door] Very well. I'll wait for you. [The outer door closing is heard. [He closes door R. 1 E. and goes quicldy to window and looks out and down into the street, watching NIGHTY'S cab start. Then he comes down to writing-table and begins to open his letters. Enter PINE R. 2 E. with breakfast tray, which he puts on a table R. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 65 [Sits at writing-table] Give mo some coffee. That's all I want, [ffe continues to open and read letters] How is our interesting patient ? PINE. He's resting, sir, after the fatigue of seeing the doctor. [Pouring out coffee. WAVES/TON. [Looking up, interested, from a letter he is reading] Oh, Dr. Wharton has been ? PINE. Yes, sir. WAVERTON. Well ? PINE. [Crossing to WAVERTON ivith coffee] Dr. Wharton was cheerful about Mr. Burns' injuries. His diagnose was a small shock to nervous system calling for an hour or two's rest. For slight wound on head he prescribed cold water and reduction of hair. For slight bruise on side, he prescribed tincture of h'arnica. WAVERTON. Well, that's easy. PINE. He also prescribed a bath and change of underwear. WAVERTON. [Smiling and drinking coffee] He said nothing about carriage exercise ? PINE. Not yet, sir ; but I'm sure if you give Dr . Wharton a chance WAVERTON. [Interrupting him, rises and crosses to table R, takes toast from rack and butters it] Pine, you don't like Mr. Burns. PINE. [Hypocritically] Me, sir ? I'm sure that all God's creatures WAVERTON No nonsense with me, Pine. I know you don't like him. Now, for my part, I entertain E 66 PASSERS-BY ACT n for him that tolerant affection that I should have for any lost mongrel that I chanced to befriend. ... I want to do something to uplift him PINE. Uplift ! That class ! Excuse me, sir ! [He sniggers. He takes coffee-cup and replaces it on tray, table R. WAVERTON. Don't snigger, Pine, It annoys me. Now, I'm sure if Burns were cleaned up and given some light employment PINE. The employment might be possible, sir ; but in regards to the cleaning up [He makes an expressive gesture of disgust. WAVERTON. [L. of table R., firmly] When Mr. Burns is rested, you will conduct him to the bath-room the servants' bath-room and lock him in until he has availed himself of its resources. You will burn his clothes and furnish him with a sufficiency of your own, which I will replace for you. PINE. [R. of table R., resignedly] Yes, sir. WAVERTON, You will arrange a shakedown for him in the box-room. When he is well enough you can make him a sort of odd-job man. He shall have a trial any way. [Crosses to writing-table and sits L.c. [PiNE is looking lugubrious. PINE. And with respect to his beard, sir ? It's a shocking happendage. WAVERTON. [Abstractedly as he reads a letter] Oh, that must come off. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 67 PINE, [Brightening considerably and taking break- fast-tray] Good ! I'll call in a barber, sir. [Exit PINE R. 2 E. [WAVERTON gathers his letters together on writing-desk. He rises and looks at his watch. WAVERTON. Good heavens ! I forgot ! \He hesitates for a moment, then takes up the telephone receiver.'] Hello, hello . . . give me 17004 May fair. . . . Hello is that 17004? ... Is that you, Simpson? . . . Yes I'm Mr. Peter. I want you to tell her lady- ship that I'm extremely sorry, but business of the gravest importance what? . . . Her ladyship has left the house in the motor . . . and Miss Dainton ? Oh ... they're calling for me here. Thank you, that will do. [He puts down receiver.'] The Devil ! [A thoughtful pause. He touches the bell. Enter PINE R. 2 E. Pine, I'm in an awful hole. I had quite forgotten an engagement I made to motor down into Hertfordshire this morning with her ladyship and Miss Dainton. Now I've asked Mrs. Summers to come back, and PINE. [Discreetly] Perhaps I could 'invent some little [The door bell is heard. WAVERTON, [Dryly] Some little lie. I've no doubt you could, but if that's her ladyship it's too late. PINE, Shall you be at home, sir ? 68 PASSERS-BY ACT n WAVERTON, I'm afraid I've got to be at home. [Exit PINE R. 1 E. [WAVERTON walks about nervously. Re-enter PINE R. 1 E. PINE. [Announcing them] Lady Hurley and Miss Dainton, sir. [PixE exits R. 1 E. Enter LADY HURLEY and BEATRICE DAINTON. LADY - HURLEY is a well-preserved woman of about 47, of rather severe aspect and a forceful personality. BEATRICE is a pretty girl of about 23, with an habitually quizzical expression and humorous eyes. Both ladies are dressed suitably for motoring into the country for luncheon, WAVERTON. [Adopting an extremely agreeable tone] Good morning, Amelia [He kisses her ladyship] Good morning, Bee. [He kisses BEATRICE] BEATRICE. Good morning, Peter. [Crosses down L. to fire-place. WAVERTON. [L.C.] You didn't get ray message then ? LADY HURLEY. [R.C.] What message ? WAVERTON. I've just rung up the house. LADY HURLEY. We have just left the house. WAVERTOK, But I unfortunately rang up after you had left. LADY HURLEY. Then how could we have had your message ? WAVERTON. [Thoughtfully] True. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 69 BEATRICE. [Aside to him, and secretly laughing] You are a goat ! LADY HURLEY, You don't appear to be ready for us. WAVERTON. [Leaning against R. end of sofa. BEATRICE is L. of him, with her arm through his] No. LADY HURLEY, [c.] Then get ready. I advise a thick overcoat. It's cold. [Slight pause] Be good enough to hurry, Peter. Lady Tollington always lunches early in the country. WAVERTON. The fact is, Amelia, I rang you up to tell you that matters of extreme importance had arisen, which make it quite impossible for me to motor down to Hertfordshire with you to-day. I'm sorry. BEATRICE. [With a cheerfulness which is intended for LADY HURLEY] "Well, that's very simple. We must go without you. LADY HURLEY. It doesn't occur to me as being so very simple. BEATRICE. Why, Aunt Amelia ? LADY HURLEY. [With emphasis] The appointment was made yesterday morning and Peter was reminded of it by both of us after dinner last night. BEATRICE. But he says that important matters have arisen since. LADY HURLEY, Really, Beatrice, you must forgive me, but this is a family affair, and as you're not yet a full member 70 PASSERS-BY ACT n BEATRICE. Of the family ! No, not yet Aunt Amelia ! WAVERTON. [With gentle irony] When you are, my dear, you will understand that no incident may be permitted to pass unadorned by its little scene. [BEATRICE smiles up at him. LADY HURLEY. My dear Peter, no rudeness or sarcasm will alter the fact that you have played fast and loose with an engagement with two ladies. Per- haps, however, you have become ultra-modern, and the fact that one of them is the girl you are going to marry BEATRICE. [Breaking in] I'm quite satisfied with Peter's explanation. [.4 smile between WAVERTON and BEATRICE. LADY HURLEY. [Ignoring the interruption^ . . . and the other your half-sister and your senior by many years is sufficient excuse in your eyes for conduct which I am compelled to regard as not quite "ftroe. WAVERTON. [Ci'osses c. quietly] Have you quite finished, Amelia? LADY..HURLEY. [Crosses c.] I may be old-fashioned j but I hate anything raffish. WAVERTON. Have you quite finished, Amelia ? LADY HURLEY. If even you had some plausible excuse. [Sits chair L. c. WAVERTON. My dear Amelia, I'm well aware you would rather miss lunching with Lady Tollington than finding out what keeps me in town. LADY HURLEY. [Indignant] Really, Peter ! ACT ii PASSERS-BY 71 WAVERTON. [/Sits on edge of table, R.] Oh, I know [He smiles.'] So here goes. I had visitors last night, LADY HURLEY. Visitors at that hour ? WAVERTON. Yes. BEATRICE. After you telephoned me ? WAVERTON. Yes. LADY HURLEY. Who were they ? WAVERTON, [Slowly.] Just some passers-by. BEATRICE. [Sitting R. arm of sofa, L.] But how exciting, old boy. LADY HURLEY. [Gravely] Peter, I must warn you against eccentricity. It is in your blood. Your poor mother was eccentric. She used to pick up the most extraordinary people, much to the horror of papa and myself. WAVERTON. Well, Amelia, she's picking up extra- ordinary people in Heaven now and so peace to her dear memory. BEATRICE. What was your bag last night, Peter ? WAVERTON. A statesman and an economist. BEATRICE. You old dear ! I believe you are pulling our legs. LADY HURLEY. Beatrice, you horrify me ! Anything more wanting in delicacy WAVERTON. [Interrupting.] The economist returned here this morning. BEATRICE. Is he presentable ? WAVERTON. Not at the moment. I believe he is in his bath. 72 PASSERS-BY ACT n [A doubtful look passes between BEATRICE and LADY HURLEY. BEATRICE. Are you quite well, old dear ? WAVERTON. Perfectly, thanks. LADY HURLEY. If you're serious, Peter, you must be off your head. WAVERTON. I'm quite serious and quite sane, Amelia. LADY HURLEY. Are the persons you refer to gentlemen ? WAVERTON. [Rises and goes up c. a little,] Oh, Amelia ! who shall judge a gentleman ? They have, however, some of the necessary attributes. LADY HURLEY. I suppose we are to assume that the business which detains you in town is connected with these persons ? BEATRICE. I have it ! Peter's going into politics. Clever old thing ! \_She rises and crosses iip to WAVERTON, and then both go up to window, R. LADY HURLEY, If Peter is going mad he'd better see a doctor. If, on the other hand, he's going into politics, he has my approval. Politics is no longer essentially the career for a gentleman, but in these iconoclastic times when class is arrayed against class [She suddenly sees one of MARGARET'S gloves on writing-table] when class is arrayed [She picks up the glove and gazes at it for a moment unseen l>y the others'] against class [Slight pause"] Beatrice, ACT ii PASSERS-BY 73 would you be good enough to wait for me in the motor ? BEATRICE. [Crosses down c. surprised] Certainly, Aunt Amelia, if you have something confidential to say to Peter, LADY HURLEY. I have. [WAVERTON, who also looks surprised, walks down R. to door, R. 1 E, BEATRICE. [Goes R. aside to WAVERTON] You're up to some mischief, old dear. What is it ? WAVERTON, [The same] For Heaven's sake, get her away. BEATRICE. [Aloud] Can't you postpone your talk with Peter, Aunt Amelia ? We shall be so late for luncheon. LADY HURLEY. [Firmly] Be good enough to wait for me in the motor. [WAVERTON and BEATRICE shrug shoulders, glance at each other, and exeunt, R. 1 E. \The noise of outer door closing is heard. Slight pause, while LAKY HURLEY looks at the glove with some disgust, then drops it on tvriting-table. Enter WAVERTON, R. IE.; a, slight pause while they look at each other. WAVERTON. Well, Amelia ! LADY HURLEY. [In the manner of one who bears a burden with resignation] Peter, I was unfortunately abroad when our father fell in love with and married your mother. 74 PASSERS-BY ACT n WAVERTON. [Up R. c.] So you have frequently given me to understand, Amelia. LADY HURLEY. Although she had many amiable qualities, the match was one which WAVERTON. [Firmly] You will kindly leave my mother out of the question, Amelia. Her loss was the tragedy of my childhood. LADY HURLEY. I hope you remember that I did my best to replace her, Peter. WAVERTON. I remember everything, Amelia. But I'm afraid that this morning I have no time to indulges in reminiscences, however agreeable. LADY HURLEY. If at times I have suffered dis- appointment in you I have done my best to con- ceal it. WAVERTON. No doubt ! No doubt ! LADY HURLEY. I've always had your best interests at heart, and when I got you engaged to Beatrice Dainton I did so in the belief [WAVERTON looks up while she continues signi- ficantly that whatever errors you had committed in the past [Their eyes meet, there is a slight pause. WAVERTON. [To her] What the devil are you driv- ing at ? [Re goes to her. LADY HURLEY. [Rises picking up the glove with the tips of her finger and thumb, rising and holding it in front of him] What is this? ACT ii PASSERS-BY 75 WAVERTON. [Calmly, after a slight pause] It would appear to be a glove. LADY HURLEY. A woman's glove. WAVERTON. Perhaps a gentlewoman's glove. LADY HURLEY. Obviously it's the glove of a very common woman. WAVERTON. Possibly only of a very poor woman. LADY HURLEY. [Her eyes fixed on his as she lets the glove drop from her fingers on to the desk] You mean an economist. WAVERTON. [Frankly bursts out laughing] Oh, Amelia ! Oh, dear Amelia ! Life is full of compen- sations. In the old days you'll hardly believe it I used to be rather frightened of you, but in these latter days when I understand you ever so much better you afford me endless amusement. LADY HURLEY. I suppose I must be very dull, but [Stiffly. WAVERTON. Admit that, although your comely and well-clothed body is here present, your imagination for some minutes has been in the bath-room [He walks towards door R. 2 E.] Come with me, my dear Amelia, come with me. LADY HURLEY. Keally, Peter, I must ask you to behave with ordinary decency. If you give me your word that the owner of this glove is not in your apartments WAVERTON. I give it gladly, Amelia only because I am rather pressed for time this morning. 76 PASSERS-BY ACT n LADY HURLEY. [Quickly] Then you know the owner ? [The door bell is heard. WAVERTON starts a little anxiously. He is up R. c. WAVERTON. Oh yes. LADY HURLEY. But but you decline to tell me who it is ? WAVERTON. Absolutely, Amelia. Enter PINE. [WAVERTON gestures him, warning discretion. PINE. May I speak to you, sir ? [LADY HURLEY goes down L. WAVERTON goes to PINE behind table, R. They whisper and WAVERTON points to R. 2 E. indicating the room beyond. [Exit PINE R. 1 E. LADY HURLEY. [Buttoning her coat] Very well my duty is clear. WAVERTON. [Crosses L. to writing-table] If you mean your duty to me, Amelia, I beg that you will neglect it. LADY HURLEY. I refer to my duty to Beatrice who is under my protection. [Crosses R. WAVERTON, [Taking up the glove] Ah yes you are right. You will tell Bee and she will tell me, and I may or may not tell her about the owner of this rather pathetic little glove. LADY HURLEY. [Who has gone towards door R. 1 E. turning] You would be wiser to tell me who she is. WAVERTON. She is a lady for whom I entertain the ACT n PASSERS-BY 77 highest esteem. [Calls] Pine ! [Crosses behind table, R. and down to R. 1 E.] PINE. [In the distance outside] Yes, sir ? WAVERTON. [In a conventional," society" tone] Good- bye, my dear. Awfully sorry I couldn't come. Hope you'll have a nice day. [Through door] Pine, go down with her ladyship. Good-bye ! [Exit LADY HURLEY, R. 1 E. [WAVERTON closes door, hesitates a moment, then opens door again and looks out, then crosses up R, to door. He hesitates again, then comes into the middle of the room, tie appears rather embarrassed. He smoothes his hair and pulled his waistcoat straight. Then he walks to the door, R. 2 E. and opens it. WAVERTON. [In a subdued tone] Margaret ! [Slight pause. Enter MARGARET. She stands calmly at her full length in the doorway for a moment, looking rather proudly at WAVER- TON. WAVERTON looks first at her and then beyond her. Then he falls back two paces. MARGARET reaches one arm behind her and gently and slowly pushes forward LITTLE PETER. Enter LITTLE PETER. He is a beautiful child of between Jive and six. His refined oval face is surrounded by a mass of curly blond hair. His eyes are large and solemn. He 78 PASSERS-BY ACT TI is dressed simply in inexpensive materials, but in perfect taste. He is just the child and the treasure of his mother. WAVERTON looks at LITTLE PETER in profound admiration, almost in awe. His voice trembles a little as he says : But but Margaret he he's wonderful. [He stoops and gives the boy his forefinger . MARGARET. [A slight break in her voice] I thought perhaps you would think so. WAVERTON. [Stands up with a nervous, pathetic smile] Damn it, Margaret, I I'm shy. MARGARET. [Suddenly putting her hand to her face as if to stop herself from crying] I'll come back. [MARGARET steps back quickly and exits R. 2 E., closing the door behind her. [LITTLE PETER looks after his mother then at WAVERTON. WAVERTON. Come along, little man ! [He gives the child his hand and leads him to the writing-table. Then he lifts him into a sitting position ou the table] There ! [Slight pause] I'll tell you something, old chap I don't remember what interests little boys of five What's your name ? LITTLE PETER. [In a soft low voice] Peter. WAVERTON. Of course it is. I knew it already. That shows what a great big silly I am. My name's Peter too. Isn't that funny ? LITTLE PETER. Yes. [Slight pause. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 79 WAVERTON. And yet it's not so very funny, Little Peter, because because however ! Do you play with other little boys ? LITTLE PETER. No. WAVERTON. Neither did I. I can remember that much. That's what makes us both so shy. [Re looks round the room, and his eyes light on the old grand- father's clock which stands in a corner'] Know any thing about clocks ? [He picks LITTLE PETER up in his arms] Here's a wonderful old chap, although he doesn't often take it into his head to go. [He turns the hands to the hour] [The clock strikes. LITTLE PETER looks in wonder, but doesn't smile. Pretty good, eh ? LITTLE PETER, Yes. WAVERTON. [Looking into the solemn face of the child, who is still in his arms] But only pretty good. I think you're right. Now I'm going to really tell you something. People think I can't sing, but I know I can. [Puts LITTLE PETER on the ground, takes his hand and sings the chorus of Harry Lander's song, " It's just like being at JIame." Do you like that ? [LITTLE PETER nods his head. He lifts LITTLE PETER on to the sofa and lays a hand on his curls. The child still wears his solemn look a Suddenly WAVERTON walks away, 80 PASSERS-BY ACT n his back to the audience, to wipe the tears from his eyes. Pause. Then he speaks in a changed and cheerful voice. I have the idea, Little Peter. Pictures ! I can remember that too I always loved pictures! [He gets and brings to the sofa a book of engravings. He kneels by the side of the sofa and opens the book] Do you like pictures ? LITTLE PETER. Yes. WAVERTON. Well, now we're on common ground. [He looks cautiously round to be sure the doors are shut, and then for the first time kisses his child then he rises [LITTLE PETER with evident interest, slowly turns over the pages. WAVES TON goes to door R. 2 E. and opens it. WAVERTON. [With an affectation of impatience] Margaret ! Margaret ! MARGARET. [Outside] Yes ! Enter MARGARET, R. 2 E. WAVERTON. What the deuce did you go away for ? MARGARET. [Blankly] I don't know. [Then she divines his mood and smiles. She looks over to the child.] [WAVERTON'S eyes follow hers and there is a pause for a moment while the child con- tinues to be interested in the pictures. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 81 WAVERTON, \Up c.] He loves pictures so do I. [MARGARET smiles at him. Look here, Margaret, you and I have got to have a serious talk some time. MARGARET. [R.C.] What about ? WAVERTON. Well, for one thing I'm not going to have that fellow what's his beastly name? Henry MARGARET. Robinson. WAVERTON. Well, whatever it is, I'm not going to have him interfering in the bringing up of my boy MARGARET. Oh, Peter ! \They look at each other for a moment t Can't you trust me ? [ffis expression softens. He takes her hand and pats it gently. WAVERTON. Why does he never play with other little boys ? MARGARET. The boys in our neighbourhood are so rough perfect little devils. WAVERTON. Boys ought to be perfect little devils I'm convinced of it. What did Nighty think of him? MARGARET. He didn't say. There was no oppor- tunity, [WAVERTON crosses to fire-place and touches the bell. MARGARET comes to back of sofa, L. F 82 PASSERS-BY ACT n WAVERTON. We'll have him in. He may make the child smile. Enter PINE, R. 2 E. Is Nighty there ? PINE. Yes, sir, he's in the hall. WAVERTON. Bring him here. PINE. Yes, sir. WAVERTON. And, Pine ! PINE. Yes, sir. WAVERTON. At any time Mrs. Summers' little boy is here, you'll take your orders from him. PINE. [Smiling broadly] Yes, sir. [Aside to MARGARET] He's a perfect beauty, ma'am. [Exit PINE. WAVERTON. [Still at Jire-place] I want to see Little Peter smile. [PiNE goes to door R. 1 E., opens it and motions to NIGHTY, who is outside. MARGARET. [With spirit] He doesn't smile unneces- sarily. He's a superior child. [She bends over to LITTLE PETER lovingly. WAVERTON. All right, my dear, you needn't be cross. MARGARET. Don't be absurd. Enter NIGHTY, R. 1 E. WAVERTON. Well, Nighty, what do you think of Mrs. Summers' little boy ? [PiNE lingers, deeply interested in the child. ACT ii PASSERS-BY 83 NIGHTY. \By tables.'] The word is " Angel," guv'nor or, more correctly, " Cherub." [He beams. {They are all more or less beaming. WAVERTON. Tell me, Nighty, your own little boys at that age were they very quiet ? NIGHTY. Quiet ! They were a pack of little devils, guv'nor. WAVERTON. You hear that, Margaret ? MARGARET. [In a musical voice as she strokes LITTLE PETER'S hair] There are boys and boys. NIGHTY. Quite right, ma'am, and the best of 'em are quiet before grown-ups. Perhaps it's because they don't trust 'em. Enter BURNS, R. 2 E. [His hair has been cut, and he has been shaved and, in PINE'S clothes a jacket suit he looks quite respectable. He is, however, extremely indignant. WAVERTON is the, first to see him. WAVERTON. Why, this can't be my friend Burns ! [They all look at BURNS. BURNS. [In a tone of grave complaint] Yes, mister. That gent, there [pointing to PINE], 'e puts the barber on me. A liberty, I calls it. [LITTLE PETER rises and leans up against end of writing-table. NIGHTY. Why, you look a regular toft", Burns. MARGARET. It's a wonderful change, BURNS. [Agitated] I don't 'old with changes. I'm 84 PASSERS-BY ACT n fair upset without a " by-your-leave " or nothin'. It's a liberty. [Raises his voice angrily.] "Why, it ain't me it ain't like me ! It's a houtrage it's a [He is face to face with LITTLE PETER. His expression slowly softens as he gazes at the child, who is looking up at him. The others watch in deep interest. Simul- taneously the faces of BURNS and LITTLE PETER break into smiles. BURNS. [Bending towards LITTLE PETER] Hello, boy ! LITTLE PETER. Hello, man ! NIGHTY. [Softly] Well, what do you make of that ? MARGARET. [Proudly, to WAVERTON] My boy knows when to smile. [LITTLE PETER and BURNS shake hands. Picture CURTAIN ACT III SCENE : The same as Acts I and II. It is about Jive o'clock one afternoon three weeks after the events of Act II, The day has been very fine and the evening approaches in a golden haze. The window Rt is open, and the sound of traffic is heard in distance. On the curtain rising BURNS is discovered. He is wearing the clothes into which he has changed in Act II, partially covered by a long apron. He is on the sofa looking through a picture book, just as LITTLE PETER was in Act II. A patent carpet- sweeper is leaning up against chair, L. o. Suddenly BURNS thinks he hears some one coming. He starts guiltily and seizing the handle of the sweeper affects to work. Then realising that it was a false alarm, he drops the broom handle and goes to the window up R. On the way he picks up a pin, BURNS. [Soliloquising with satisfaction] A black- head ! [He puts it in his waistcoat. [He is absorbed in gazing out of the windoie. [After a few moments' interval the door L. 85 86 PASSERS-BY ACT m of the room opens silently and PINE appears. He comes c. and takes hold of sweeper - handle which is leaning against piano. Enter LITTLE PETER unseen by the others. He lies on sofa and conceals himself with cushions. PINE. I thought so ! [BURNS starts and turns, shuts window and comes down to R. of piano. Noise of traffic ceases. This morning I put you on to this carpet did you do it? No. This afternoon I put you back on it are you doing it ? No. You're loafing. That's what you're doing loafing. BURNS. [Sulkily] Bother! PINE. What were you doing at that window ? BURNS. Smelling the dust I like it. [Takes broom-handle from PINE. PINE. Your sort would, [BURNS moves the sweeper languidly over the carpet. Why don't you put your back into it ? BURNS. Me back's weak. PINE. That's only a fiction. BURNS, What's a fiction ? PINE. Polite for falsehood. BURNS. My ! Wish I was eddicated, PINE, [Sitting on chair L. c.] I've been looking at those knives you've supposed to have cleaned. I'm afraid you'll have to go over them again. ACT in PASSERS-BY 87 BURNS. [R.C.] Shan't. PINE. You mustn't speak to me like that. I don't want to have to complain to Mr. Waverton about you. BURNS, Oh, don't yer ! PINE. I'd rather he remained under the illusion that there's some manhood in you. BURNS. [Turns on PINE] 'E's on my side, 'e is, PINE. Oh, he's made a case of you being a bit balmy. Personally I should have left you where you was best fitted. BURNS, It was you as fetched me in. PINE. By his orders. I only drew his attention to you because you were like a picture in a comic paper. BURNS. [With an absurd outburst of rage] Oo put the barber on me that's what I arst ? PINE. I did by his order's. BURNS. [Much impressed] 'Tain't true, PINE. It's the golden gospel. Between us we made you look something like a human being. But are you a human being, Burns ? The reply is, in the language of poetry, " Yes, I don't think, don't think, don't think ! " You don't know poetry, Burns ? [Rise. BURNS. [In mild anger] I'm straightforward that's wot I am. PINE. Poor chap ! 'Opeless ! Well, we can only go on doing our little best. BURNS. You'll mi^s me when I'm gome. 88 PASSERS-BY ACT in PINE. [Going to door L.] Oh, yes, I'll miss you, But you won't go, Burns your sort never goes. [Exit PINE L. [BURNS throws a malevolent look after him, then continues to feebly push the sweeper. After a moment's pause LITTLE PETER comes from his concealment, and taking hold of the lower part of the siveeper -handle, assists BURNS to shove it. BURNS laughs and discontinues work himself, leaving the sweeper in possession of LITTLE PETER. BURNS, That's right give it a good 'ard shove. [LITTLE PETER does so. BURNS sits L. of table R., and pointing in the direction in which PINE has gone, says with some heat : 'E thinks 'e's my boss, but he ain't. I never 'ad no boss never in my life. [LITTLE PETER continues to v}ork. /Slight pause. BURNS beckons to him. 'Ere little 'un 'ere ! [LITTLE PETER puts down the sioeeper-handle and goes to BURNS. I don't like 'im, and 'e don't like me there ! 'E's bad. -. LITTLE PETER. Is he ? BURNS. Yes. It's snap snap snap with him all the time. There's no peace. An' the liberties ! 'E 'ad me beard took off. You never see me with a beard. LITTLE PETER. Was it a long one '< ACT in PASSERS-BY 89 BURNS. Middlin'. Yes, it's snap snap all work and sharpness. LITTLE PETER, [c.] Poor Mr. Burns, BURNS. " Burns ! " That what 'e calls me. Imper- dence ! Nobody never calls me nothing before. Me other name's Samuel. LITTLE PETER. Is it ? BURNS. Yes. Call me Samuel. [Pauses.] Won't yer ? I wouldn't let no one else. LITTLE PETER. Samuel! BURNS. That's right. 'Ere, I'll show you some- thin'. Yer won't tell ? LITTLE PETER, No. BURNS. [In great confidence'] I got me cap back. [He half pulls it from his breast-pocket and puts it back again] I've 'ad it years and years. 'E took it away the day 'e put the barber on me, but I creep an' creep in the night, an' I foun' it. [The door suddenly opens. Enter PINE. [BURNS rises hastily. LITTLE PETER goes down L. PINE. [Crosses down c. to LITTLE PETER. With grave indignation] Master Peter, it's not beseeming that you should talk to the under servants. [He comes down and takes LITTLE PETER'S hand and goes R. I have to take you for a nice drive in a cab, after which your Ma is coming to take you home. That poor chap isn't a fit companion for a young gentleman like you. 90 PASSERS-BY ACT m BURNS, [c. Bitterly to LITTLE PETER] That's right I'm the dirt under yer feet. LITTLE PETER. [With a look from BURNS to PINE] I like him. PINE. Young gent.'s tastes is very himature. [LITTLE PETER nods at BURNS. [Exeunt PINE and LITTLE PETER. R. 1 E. PINE shuts door after them. BURNS. [Soliloquising. Drops sweeper] My sort never goes ! [ With great determination] Don't it ! [BURNS evidently makes up his mind to a, course of action. He begins by taking off his apron which he flings under piano then after a longing look through the window he goes softly towards the door. The door R. at that moment opens and LITTLE PETER appears, dressed to go out. LITTLE PETER, [flhuts door and comes to R. of table R. In a guarded voice] Good-bye, Samuel. BURNS. [Down L.C. In the same tone and beckoning with his hand] 'Ere ! [LITTLE PETER, after a glance over his shoulder, goes to BURNS. Do you like rabbits ? LITTLE PETER. [R.C.] Yes. BURNS. I know where there's 'undreds. You make a loop with a bit of string an' sometimes . you can catch 'em : then you pick 'em up by the ears, ACT in PASSERS-BY 91 never by the feet, always by the ears. String's wot yer want. I got heaps. [He takes a collection of siring out of his pocket and shows LITTLE PETEK] See ! [Pause] It ain't far. Will you come ? LITTLE PETEK. Yes. BURNS. There'll be a moon to-night. PINE. [Outside] Master Peter ! Master Peter ! LITTLE PETER. Ssh ! [LITTLE PETER gets quickly under piano and beckons to BURNS, who follows him. Enter PINE R. 1 E. PINE. Come along, Master Peter. [Pause. He looks round.] Now, where the - [He raises his voice.] Master Peter ! Master Peter ! [Exit PINE L. [BURNS and LITTLE PETER scurry lightly across to principal door R. 1 E., which is open. [LITTLE PETER exits. [There BURNS stops and turns round for a moment, BURNS. [Looking towards door L.] "My sort never goes ! " Yah ! [Exit BURNS. PINE. [Outside] Master Peter ! Enter PINE L. I 'ate those silly games. [He looks round the room at the possible hiding-places, then goes back to the door L. Raises his voice] \ suppose you're hiding behind that 92 PASSERS-BY ACT m sofa ! If you think I'm going to duck about and make bags of my trousers you're mistaken. [Slight pause] I don't want to be hard on you, Burns, but I'll have to report you for this ! [Suddenly he notices the time by the clock] Good Lord ! ten to five ! [He hastily puts the patent sweeper outside the door E. 2 E. and does one or two little things to straighten the room. Then he goes back to door L.] Burns, have done with this NIGHTY. [Outside n,] Mr. Pine ! Mr. Pine ! PINE. [Starting nervously] Hello ! [Raises his voice] Is that you, Nighty ? NIGHTY. [Outside] Yes. Enter NIGHTY K. 1 E. What about this drive ? PINE. [On whom a fear is evidently growing up, L.C.] Who let you in ? Cook ? NIGHTY. No, I walked in. The door was open* PINE. Open ? NIGHTY. Yes. PINE. Who opened it ? NIGHTY. [Down B.] Well now, Mr. Pine, 'ow should I know? I suppose you left it open last time you came in. PINE. [After a slight pause] Look here, Nighty, that Burns damn him ! I wish he'd never come here him and the boy think they're having a game with me hiding silly rot I call it. ACT in PASSERS-BY 93 NIGHTY, Go on, they're only children, both of 'em. PINE. You have a look round these rooms while I look at the back. Try behind the sofa in there. [Pointing to door L. NIGHTY. Right you are ! [Exit PINE quickly iu 2 E. [A broad smile steals over NIGHTY'S face, he makes a search of the room] Come along, Master Peter. It's only old Nighty ! [Pause. Then he exits L. softly through door, tiptoeing, as if playing with children. [Then there is a slight pause. Re-enter NIGHTY looking puzzled and grave. He looks under piano and finds BURNS' apron. Enter PINE by door, R. 2 E. He is much excited and alarmed. NIGHTY. They're not here. PINE. And they're nob out there. Not a sign of them. NIGHTY, [Handing him the apron] This was under the piano. PINE. [Deeply agitated R.C.] My God, Nighty, I'm in trouble. NIGHTY. [L.C,] Pull yourself together, r. Pine. PINE. I tell you it's ruin for me. That cursed loafer's gone off with the child. They were here one moment, and the next they was gone as if the earth 94 PASSERS-BY ACT in had swallowed them ! I always had an instinct about that cockroach and my instincts NIGHTY. [Firmly] Never mind your instincts, Mr. Pine the business is to find 'em. They can't have gone far. PINE. You're right, and, by God, I'll break every bone [The door bell is heard to ring. That's the mother a thousand to one. NIGHTY. Or the guv'nor. PINE. No. He'd use his latch-key. If she was to know she'd go stark staring mad. Not a word, you understand. Leave it to me. [Exit PINE quickly, R. 1 E. [NIGHTY, grave and troubled, stands waiting, c. [After a slight interval, enter MARGARET, follotved by PINE, R. 1 E. PINE. [By door. Hurriedly and with affected cheer- fulness] It's Nighty, ma'am. MARGARET. [Who appears in good spirits] Good afternoon, Nighty. [Crosses up c. NIGHTY. [Affecting cheerfulness, works round to door R. behind table] Good afternoon, ma'am. PINE. [Also affecting cheerfulness] We're just starting to take the young gentleman for a little drive, ma'am* MARGARET. Where is Master Peter ? PINE. [Quickly] He's stepped across to the cab- rank with Burns, ma'am. ACT in PASSERS-BY 95 [NiGHTY is now making for door, bowing and smiling painfully. Mr. Waverton's motoring, ma'am. He'll be in on the stroke of five. MARQAKET. [Taking off" her jacket] Don't go too far. NIGHTY. No ma'am. Just round Constitution Hill and the Palace. [Exeunt PINE and NIGHTY, closing door, R. 1 E. MARGARET/O^S her jacket and takes her hat off" and lays them on piano. She then takes off her gloves. She is humming an air. She then takes a piece of work from her bag and makes herself comfortable in chain,, of table R. [WAVERTON'S latchkey is heard in the ouier door. MARGARET looks up for a moment and then back at her work. Slight pause. WAVERTON enters R. 1 E. in motoring clothes. WAVERTON. Hello, Margaret ! MARGARET. Hello, Peter ! [WAVERTON takes off his coat, cap and gloves, and lays them on chair R.,just against R. 1 E. WAVERTON. So glad you've come. I'm not late, am I? MARGARET. No. i was a little early. WAVERTON. I've been trying my motor with the 96 PASSERS-BY ACT in new light body on it she goes splendidly. I wish you'd let me take you for a run one day. MARGARET. I should be afraid. I've never been in a motor-car. WAVEHTON. How old-fashioned of you. It's time you began. MARGARET. I'm too old to begin. WAVERTON. [Walking about and laughing] You! Old ! [He laughs] You're still a child. [As he passes her chair, he lightly touches her shoulder, ] [NoTE : His attraction to her and her know- ledge of it and instinctive defence underlies the entire scene.] I'll ring for Pine, and we'll have some tea. MARGARET. I've had tea, thank you. Pine and Nighty have taken Little Peter for a drive. They've just gone. WAVERTON. Ah ! I forgot ! I left instructions. [He goes up L. to the spirit stand] Well, if I'm to have tea alone I'll take it with soda-water. [He mixes him- self a whisky and soda, and drinks] Do you know, my dear, I think you are very good to me. MARGARET. I? How? WAVERTON. First of all, in letting me see the boy twice a week. MARGARET. I thought it only fair to you both. WAVERTON. Secondly, in coming to fetch him away yourself. That is unearned increment. I hope it won't be taxed. [He lights a cigarette, crosses c. ACT in PASSERS-BY 97 [MAEGAEET keeps her face down over her work. WAVEETON looks at her, but gets no sign of her thoughts. He sits at his ivriting- table. There is rather a long pause. WAVEETON. Margaret! MAEGAEET. Yes? WAVEETON.. I want you to make it three times a week. MAEGAEET. Don't ask me, Peter. I'm sure it would be unwise. As it is I have misgivings. WAVEETON. Misgivings ? MAEGAEET. I'm not sure we are acting fairly, WAVEETON. To whom ? MAEGAEET, Well to to Miss Dainton. [Slight pause"] You have told her nothing. WAVEETON. [Embarrassed'] No, not yet. I called for her in the motor to-day meaning to take her for a drive and to tell her. I think I was glad she was out. I suppose she ought to know. But it's difficult she's only a girl. MAEGAEET. [Slowly] She must be told the truth, Peter otherwise I can't WAVEETON. [Hastily] You are perfectly right, my dear. I shall tell her to-morrow, [fie rises and walks a little down L.] Fortunately Beatrice has the keenest sympathies. She's just all goodness. [Coming to her] What work's that you're doing ? MAEGAEET. Knitting. WAVEETON. What? MAEGAEET. Socks. 98 PASSERS-BY ACT m [WAVERTON sits top of table R. leaning towards her. WAVERTON. Little ones, I see. MARGARET. For little feet. WAVERTON. Must you always work ? MARGARET. [Laughing lightly] Having a piece of work in one's hand enables one to concentrate. WAVERTON. Oh, really ? MARGARET. Some people say that if you keep your feet together and your hands together, you complete the circuit. I don't know what it means WAVERTON. Nor do they. MARGARET. Nor do they but I fancy this has the same kind of effect. [Holding up her work] You understand ? WAVERTON. [Vaguely] Yes, I suppose so. [He laughs slightly.] [She laughs slightly. Then they laugh together rather more than the occasion would warrant. I told you you were only a child. MARGARET. [Returning to her work] And you ? WAVERTON. I [He takes up wool, which MAR- GARET, after a moment, gently takes away from him] I think that in some ways of late I've grown younger. I used to feel too old for my age now perhaps I'm too young for my age all on account of that kid of ours. Damme, I find myself thinking all the time of cricket and football and the games I missed as a boy ACT in PASSERS-BY 99 through the old man being ass enough to decide against a public school. But I can give Little Peter swimming and shooting and handling a horse or boat with the best of 'em. I don't mind telling you, my dear, that even now, I wouldn't change my hands on a horse with However, I don't want to boast. [Rises and goes c. MARGARET. You forget I saw you win the point-to- point race at Blairfield WAVERTON. So you did. So you did. [Slight pause] Do you know that little chap grows on one like the devil. MARGARET. Does he, Peter ? WAVERTON. Yes. Of course, withfyou it's different. The maternal instinct is a very potent factor. MARGARET. It just means loving loving dread- fully. WAVERTON. [Sits arm of chair, L.C.] Exactly. Now with us mere men common, ordinary masculine clay the affection has to grow. The first feeling is one of embarrassment. One is a father ! The devil ! Awkward responsibility. What's to be done about it ? Then one finds one is the father of a kind of glory like Little Peter with some likeness to what we were ourselves in our obscure youth ! Aha reproduction of Us. [Tapping his chest] What better model ? Chip of the old block ! Our vanity is tickled. And so that's what it comes to, my dear the paternal feeling all vanity. [He pulls chair towards her, and sits. She 100 PASSERS-BY ACT m laughs] I may be wrong but I think Little Peter an unusual child. MARGARET. He sometimes says wonderful things. WAVERTON. He always looks wonderful things. MARGARET. [In a hushed tone] Perhaps perhaps he has a touch of genius. WAVERTON. Perhaps. It would be a nice change in a Waverton {They are silent for a moment, and then their eyes meet and they smile. Have you his picture in that locket? [MARGARET'S hand goes quickly to her neck where the locket is just under her dress. The light begins very gradually to get dimmer as the sun is setting. MARGARET. Yes. WAVERTON. Mightn't I see it. MARGARET. [Rising, shaking her dress straight and putting down her work] It's only an old one taken two years ago. [Crosses L. c. WAVERTON. Two years ago ! Little Peter at three ! Let me see it. [Rises and comes to R. of her. MARGARET. [Getting away from him, L.] I I think I have another copy I'll bring it to you. WAVERTON. But, my dear, don't you understand ? I want to see it now. Do be kind. [He holds out his hand for locket. MARGARET. No ! No ! You can't see it now. I don't wan't you to. ACT in PASSERS-BY 101 WAVERTON. But I must. [He holds her while she struggles] Margaret, don't be so cruel. I'm dying to see it. Don't be a perfect brute to me. MARGARET. [Panting] Peter be reasonable ! WAVERTON. No, really it isn't nice of you. [Suddenly, by a desperate effort, MARGARET wrenches herself free and rushes to the fire- place. He follows her. Margaret ! MARGARET. [Her voice raised] Do you want me to throw it in the fire ? [Her hand is on the locket at her neck and she is breathing heavily. WAVERTON. [flinging himself on the sofa.] No. [He is much agitated. There is a pause while they both make an effort to regain self-control. MARGARET. [Endeavouring to speak evenly L. end of sofa L.] Now you are very angry. I'm sorry. WAVERTON. I'm not angry. You were quite within your rights. [Raising his voice] But you can't expert me to be particularly exhilarated by the thought [He breaks off abruptly. MARGARET. Well. By what thought ? WAVERTON. [Angry and vaguely jealous.] What did you suppose I should think ? [Slight pause. He sits up] Must I say it? [Slight pause] That's the picture of another man MARGARET. [Waving her trembling hands] Ssh ! Don't say that, Peter ! 102 PASSERS-BY ACT m WAVERTON. But isn't it natural, as you were so damned careful not to let me see MARGARET. [Quickly] No yes I suppose so but you don't understand. You'll take niy word though I'm sure of that, and I give it. Your thought was was wrong. [Goes up L., round top of writing -table. WAVERTON. [A little ashamed'] I'm glad and and I'm sorry. Forgive me. [lie looks down at his hands nervously] I'm a fool ! [She is R. of writing-desk. MARGARET. If one could only convince oneself that everything is all right and just the way it's got to be WAVERTON. [Rising goes up to L. writing -table] You haven't asked me why why I bothered so much about the locket ? [He is longing to tell her it was because he loves her. MARGARET. [Quickly] No I don't want to know [She does know. WAVERTOX. Perhaps you guess. MARGARET. [Almost passionately] No. C'an't you see ? I prefer not to. [She is now at the other side of the desk and she takes up the picture of BEATRICE. WAVERTOX. [Behind writing-table. Almost angrily] You may put that down I forget nothing. [He takes photo from her, and replaces it on table. ACT in PASSERS-BY 103 MABGAKET, It was unintentional, ; f 1^ assure you, Peter, I took it up unconsciously. I I am very nervous. Without meaning it, I'm afraid we hurt each other, [Goes c.] We must be more more conventional or else I shan't be able to come here again. WAVERTON, [Quickly and gently] Don't say that, Margaret, [She goes to table R., and sits and picks up her work. [Crosses R. to behind table, R.] It was all my fault. I'm a perfect brute. [He takes the work from her] And don't work any more. [Puts work on piano] The light's getting too bad. [Puts chair c. up to writing- table, and sits on arm. Pause] Play something for me. [They both now try to be conventional. MARGARET. I play ! Oh, my dear Peter, my playing days are over. My fingers have lost what little cunning they had. WAVERTON, Don't you get any practice now ? MARGARET, Very little and that only on my landlady's piano. Imagine it [rises] a tall, severe repellent affair with a green silk front and three broken notes. WAVERTON. [Smiling] I can see it, There are probably woolwork flowers on the top under a glass case. MARGARET. Yes, and a stuffed squirrel. WAVERTON. [Going to piano] Do try mine. It's up to date, though possibly out of tune. 104 PASSERS-BY ACT m MARGARET. [Going to piano] But, really, Peter, it's quite out of the question. [She sits. WAVERTOX. Anything. [He stands against the piano looking at her. [MARGARET begins playing Schubert's " Au die Musik " very softly. Pause. That's it. Nothing clings so desperately to the memory as music, Margaret. MARGARET. [Still playing] No. [Another pause. WAVERTON, That's as I first saw you at Amelia's. It was after dinner, and the new governess had been sent for to play to us. [Softly] You were the new governess. MARGARET. [Softly] Yes, I was the new governess. WAVERTON. And that is what you first played. MARGARET. Yes. WAVERTOX. [He listens for afeiv moments before he speaks in subdued tones] I sat, as it were, over there [pointing L.] watching you from behind the evening paper. Dear God ! how shy I was ! I was afraid you would catch me looking at you and still more afraid that Amelia would catch me. She sat there, in what had been my mother's favourite chair, and in complete command as always of the situation. Hurley sprawled in an arm-chair asleep as usual, and my father stood over at the mantelpiece secretly disapproving the sentiment of the music. It was a typical domestic English evening, but in that quiet room love was at work. [Leaning on the piano] Their hostility began it. The very air was charged with it, and with the ACT in PASSERS-BY 105 distrust of youth. Instinctively we formed an alliance against the common enemy. And so came our secret meetings and the discovery of our mutual loneliness. And then Margaret then MAKGARET. [Ceasing to play, rising in much agita- tion] You mustn't go on. I can't listen. It isn't right. I must go you must send the child WAVE ETON. [Determined] Wait I've got to say this. What a man has lost through no fault of his own still belongs to him in his heart of hearts. And it was through no fault of mine that I lost you, Margaret. All the luck was against me, but I want you to know that I wouldn't have given you up no, Margaret by God I wouldn't ! [he is close to her, and appears about to take her in his arms] [Unheeded by MARGARET and WAVERTON the outer door bell has sounded and at this moment the noise of the door being opened is heard. MARGARET. [Listening] The child ! Thank God ! [LADY HURLEY'S voice is heard outside. WAYEKTON. [Listening] No ! It's my sister ! MARGARET. [Alarmed] Lady Hurley ! [She is about to move. WAVERTON. [Laying his hand on her arm] Don't you move. LADY HURLEY. [Outside] It's all right, my good woman, we know our way. WAVERTON. [Quickly and impressively] Will you trust me, Margaret ? 106 PASSERS-BY ACT m MARGARET. [Up B.C. Looking full at him] Yes. [WAVERTON conies down L.C. Enter MRS. PARKER, R. 1 E., owning the door for LADY HURLEY and BEATRICE, who enter. [MRS. PARKER closes the door and exits. LADY HURLEY. [Crosses L.] You must forgive this invasion, Peter, but you've brought it on yourself by your neglect. WAVERTON. [Going to her] Delighted to see you, my dear and you, Bee. [Crosses c. he touches BEATRICE lightly on the shoulder as he passes her to the electric light switches down R. [The evening light has become very dim. BEATRICE [c.] Heartbroken, old dear, to have missed you when you called. WAVERTON. What we all need is more light. [He sivitches on the light. LADY HURLEY. [Suddenly seeing MARGARET] I'm afraid our visit is ill-timed. WAVERTON. [Going quickly up to window] And drawn curtains give a sense of intimacy. [Drawing the curtains] You and Miss Summers know each other, Amelia. [LADY HURLEY at writing-table falls back a step utterly dumbfounded. [Introducing] Miss Dainton Miss Summers ! [Both the girls bow. BEATRICE [c.] AND MARGARET [R.C.] [Together, rather faintly] Howd'youdo? ACT in PASSERS-BY 107 LADY HURLEY. [Aside to WAVERTON, who has come down L. to /ire-place, gasping ivith indignation] How dare you ! WAVERTON. [Quietly] What's the matter, Amelia ? LADY HURLEY. How dare you introduce such a woman to Beatrice. BEATRICE. [To MARGARET] I'm glad to meet a friend of Peter's, Miss Summers. [They shake hands. Slight pause. MARGARET. Thank you. LADY HURLEY. Beatrice, you'll be good enough to wait for me in the motor below. BEATRICE. [Up c.] Oh, no, Aunt Amelia ; I don't think I can be quite good enough for that. Not to-day. LADY HURLEY. [By sofa L. firmly] Please do as I wish. BEATRICE. I'm sorry I can't, Aunt Amelia. I have a strange feeling that my days of waiting in the motor below have gone for ever. LADY HURLEY. There are some things that young girls mustn't know about. BEATRICE. Perhaps they're the very things that young girls ought to know about. - LADY HURLEY. [With quiet indignation] Very well. You bring the unpleasantness] upon yourself. I'm sorry to have to tell you that this person left my employment in circumstances WAVERTON. [At fire-place, interposing firmly] Wait, Amelia, I'm sure that you'd never forgive yourself 108 PASSERS-BY ACT m if you said something offensive about a lady who is my guest. LADY HURLEY. I don't wish to be unnecessarily offensive, Peter but if Miss Summers is to remain, I must go. WAVERTON. I should regret your going, my dear, but if you feel LADY HURLEY. [Quickly interrupting] Come, Beatrice [Moves as if to go. BEATRICE, [c.] I can't, Aunt Amelia. Peter evi- dently wants to tell me something that I ought to know. He'll tell me the truth. I trust Peter. WAVERTON. [Crosses R. a little] Shall I take you down, Amelia? [A pause. LADY HURLEY hesitates. MARGARET. I will go. [Comes down R. a little. WAVERTON. [Goes R. below table] I particularly wish you to remain. BEATRICE. So do I, Miss Summers. LADY HURLEY. [Coming to a decision] As Beatrice is in my care I can't leave her here alone. There would appear to be no respect, no obedience, no decency left in the world. However, I have made my protest against what I consider a scandalous pro- ceeding. WAVERTON. [By door R. 1 E.] I have made a mental note of your protest, my dear, and I'm glad you've decided to stay. I must beg of you, however, to exercise self-control. I think that's better done sitting than standing. ACT in PASSERS-BY 109 [LADY HURLEY removes [her furs which she left on sofa. Then sits on sofa. [Goes up c.] Beatrice ! [He goes to her and gives her chair, L.C.] BEATRICE. [Laying a hand for a moment on his arm] You dear old thing ! WAVERTON. [Pulls chair out L. of table K.] Mar- garet, please don't stand. [MARGARET sits in the chair, B.C. WAVERTON position standing behind MARGARET. I had no intention of permanently concealing from you my friendship with Miss Summers, Bee. I'm sure you believe that. BEATRICE. I always believe every thing'you say, Peter. WAVERTON. We became friends six years ago when Miss Summers was governess in my sister's house. It is idle to attempt to explain what forces drew us together but there is the fact we became everything to each other. BEATRICE. [Slowly\ I understand. WAVERTON. On Amelia becoming acquainted in some way with the facts LADY HURLEY. Since you insist on knowing the truth, Beatrice a line of conduct which I consider most improper, unsuitable and deplorable I dismissed my governess on discovering she was carrying on a disgraceful intrigue in my house. WAVERTON. My sister not only dismissed Miss Summers, but in her zeal deprived me of all opportunity of repairing the wrong I had done by telling me she had gone abroad to another engagement. 110 PASSERS-BY ACT in LADY HURLEY. I did so in your own interests. WAVERTON. I am sure of it, Amelia. Then the postal authorities must have blundered, for two letters which Miss Summers wrote me never reached me. [LADY HURLEY draivs herself up stiffly. MARGARET. I don't think it is necessary to go on. T have never thought that Lady Hurley could have acted in any other WAVERTON. [Interrupting} I beg of you to let me finish, Margaret. [Crosses L. to behind sofa] I leave it to your wider experience, Amelia do letters properly and carefully addressed letters very often go astray in the post ? [Pause. BEATRICE. Where were the letters sent, Peter ? WAVERTON. To the only address Miss Summers knew of to my sister's house. [Another pause. [LADY HURLEY is obstinately silent. BEATRICE. If you had received the letters you would have have seen Miss Summers again, Peter ? WAVERTON, [Slowly, behind writing-table] Yes. I think she knows that now it is only fair to me that she should know it and it is fair to you that you should know it. BEATRICE. [Gently] You loved her, Peter, dear. WAVERTON. Yes. MARGARET. [To WAVERTON. Sitting R.C.] I hope you will explain to Miss Dainton that our meeting again was an accident and that my presence here implies no disloyalty to her. BEATRICE. I'm sure of that, Miss Summers. ACT in PASSERS-BY 111 MARGARET. Mr. Waverton told me immediately of his engagement to you. WAVERTON. And Miss Summers informed me of her engagement to a gentleman whose name I have unhappily forgotten. MARGARET. [Rises] Mr. Henry Robinson. [Goes up to piano and gets muff", etc.] LADY HURLEY. [To WAVERTON] And do you con- sider these secret meetings in your rooms quite fair to this Mr. Robinson ? WAVERTON. [Crosses to above table, R.] How like you, Amelia always thinking of others ! BEATRICE. Surely, Aunt Amelia, this is Miss Summers' affair not ours. LADY HURLEY. I see Miss Summers is going. In so doing she wins my approval for the first time. [Rises and faces MARGARET] I should like her to know first that I threw her two letters into the fire. BEATRICE. Aunt Amelia ! LADY HURLEY. [Firmly] I have no regrets. I saw the boy to whom I had devoted so much care falling into an abyss. I did what I thought best to save him. If I failed, the fault isn't mine. MARGARET. [Goes to BEATRICE, who rises] Good-bye, Miss Dainton. If I have unconsciously caused you a moment's unhappiness, I am sorry. BEATRICE. [In pained tones] Please don'fc speak of it ! [Goes up L.C. near window. Enter PINE, R. 1 E. 112 PASSERS-BY ACT m [NIGHTY can just be seen in the doorway behind him. PINE. [Agitated] Can I speak to you a moment, sir. WAVEETON. Yes what is it ? MARGARET. [Quickly] Where's the boy ? [PINE hesitates. WAVERTON. Well? PINE. Disappeared, sir with Burns. [LADY HURLEY rises. MARGARET. My God ! WAVERTON. [Firmly] Can't you trust me, Mar- garet ? MARGAPET. Yes. [Covers her face with her hands for a moment. PINE. Nighty and I have been searching for them for over an hour. [NIGHTY steps into the doorway. [The scene to be taken very quickly all through.] WAVERTON. Have you been to Scotland Yard ? NIGHTY. No, guv'nor but we passed the word to all the policemen we met. WAVERTON. Round to the garage, Nighty, and order my car. You will come with me. [Exit NIGHTY R. 1 E. [Exit PINE. It only means, Margaret, that the Wanderer has returned to the road and has taken the other child for company. Don't worry I'll bring them back. [He quickly gathers his coat, hat, [and gloves from chair by R. 1 E. ACT in PASSERS-BY 113 LADY HURLEY. There was mention of a boy. Whose boy? MARGARET. My boy, Lady Hurley. WAVERTON. [At door, R. 1 E , firmly} And mine, Amelia. LADY HURLEY. Peter ! [She staggers slightly. MARGARET sits chair R.C., her face in her hands. BEATRICE. Peter ! [She is gravely distressed. WAVERTON. Beatrice ! You have a heart. \Points to MARGARET, and exits n. 1 E. LADY HURLEY. [Picks up furs] Come, Beatrice. BEATRICE first looks towards door that WAVERTON has gone through, then at MARGARET, then at LADY HURLEY. BEATRICE with great determination drops her muff on chair L.C., then removes her hat and drops it with muff. She crosses to above table R. and lays her hand on MARGARET'S shoulder. MARGARET looks up at BEATRICE and breaks down, burying her face in her arms across the table. BEATRICE sits on chair above the table, and holds MARGARET'S hand in deep sympathy. LADY HURLEY, strongly disapproving, stands by writing-table. CURTAIN. ACT IV SCENE : The same as the previous Acts. It is 4.30 in the morning. The room is softly lighted by electricity, not all the lamps being turned on. On the curtain rising BEATRICE is discovered asleep in an arm-chair L.C. MARGARET is looking out of window There is a pause. MARGARET ivalks the room. Evidently she is thinking distractedly of her lost child. She stops once to look down at the sleeping girl, and seeing that the rug over her knees has slipped down she gently readjusts it. She then crosses to fireplace and puts a fresh log on fire. Hearing the sound of a passing taxi, she hurries to the window and looks out through the curtains. As it doesn't stop she comes back into the room ivith a dis- appointed air and resumes her restless walk. '''Big Ben" is heard striking 4.30. BEATRICE. [Stirring] Hello was I asleep ? MARGARET. I hope so. BEATRICE. What a healthy person I am. [She rubs her eyes'} I hadn't the remotest intention of going to sleep. 114 ACT iv PASSERS-BY 115 MARGARET. [R.C.] You sleep easily because you are young. BEATRICE. Young ? I ? Oh no, Miss Summers I'm grown up suddenly. I don't think any one can look realities in the face and remain young. MARGARET. Well, because you are good. BEATRICE [Laiighs] Good! Why, my entire mental life has been punctuated with crime. MARGARET, [At table R., with a slight smile] Now you're making fun'of yourself. BEATRICE. It's true. How many times do you think I have murdered Aunt Amelia ? Even Hurley and the children haven't escaped me. There have been occasions when I've dabbled in the blood of the entire family. What time is it ? MARGARET. Half -past four. BEATRICE. Half-past four ! [Rises and crosses to MARGARET] And you have been walking about and wearing yourself out while I've been resting. I feel ashamed. Do let me tuck you up in this nice chair and I'll keep watch for the motor. MARGARET. Thank you you are very sweet but I feel I couldn't rest I don't seem to be able even to sit still. [Crosses to fireplace] I I want my child. BEATRICE. You have no faith. [c.] MARGARET. Yes, yes, I have but I am a mother. BEATRICE. It must be wonderful to be a mother. MARGARET. [By fireplace] Yes, it's wonderful and beautiful; but I suppose it's like everything else in life one pays for the joy with the pain. 116 PASSERS-BY ACT iv BEATRICE. [R. end of sofa L.] Miss Summers ! MARGARET. [Softly] Yes. BEATRICE. I insist on your sitting down. MARGARET. [Hesitating] I I - BEATRICE. [In a tone of forced command] Come here ! [MARGARET goes to her] Sit there ! [Indicating R. end of sofa. MARGARET smiles and obeys. BEATRICE arranges a cushion behind her] There ! [Pulls footstool out from beneath sofa and places it for MARGARET] Put your feet on that. [MARGARET does so] Now fold your hands and close your eyes. [MARGARET does so. Slight pause. /Suddenly two tears roll down MARGARET'S cheeks, which BEATRICE wipes away with her hand] No you mustn't. MARGARET. I won't I promise. It's only - BEATRICE. Ssh ! [Lays a hand on MARGARET'S arm. Slight MARGARET. I know I oughtn't to let you stay but BEATRICE. [Sits L. arm of sofa] But you can't get rid of me. I've made up my mind to stand by you, whether you like it or not, until Peter brings your boy back. MARGARET. Lady Hurley rang up again half an hour ago. BEATRICE. What did the darling old thing say ? MARGARET. I began to tell her you were asleep, but she rang off directly she heard my voice. ACT iv PASSERS-BY 117 BEATRICE. Cat ! MARGARET. At least she's a consistent cat. BEATRICE. Oh yes consistent to the death. With all her faults she's a tremendous mother you know one of the aggressive ones. She'd mother the entire human race if she could, and every one would have a beautiful time I don't think ! I'll bet anything she's dying to know if the child is found. But do you think she'd ask you ? Not for an empire ! MARGARET. Isn't that amazing ? BEATRICE. To me it's only Aunt Amelia. Enter PINE R. 2 E. Gross to above table L. PINE. Is there anything I can get you, miss ? BEATRICE. No, thank you. [As an excuse for lingering PiifE folds the rug that is lying on the arm-chair, then lays rug over back of chair L.c. PINE. I thought perhaps, miss, you would like some coffee. BEATRICE. [Her hand on MARGARET'S shoulder] Would you ? [MARGARET shakes her head. [NOTE : During all this part of the Act MAR- GARET is obviously exercising great self- repression.] No, thank you, Pine. We shall not require any- thing till Mr. VVaverton returns. 118 PASSERS-BY ACT iv PINE. Excuse me, miss, but there's no knowing when that will be. London's a big place the suburbs are still more hextensive and as for the country BEATRICE. [Rises and crosses to R. end of sofa. Inter- rupting, as she notices the ill-effect, PINE'S words have on MARGARET] Don't talk nonsense ! A well-dressed child with a tramp isn't likely to escape notice. PINE [c.] Pardon me, miss, but if I may make so bold, this Burns was dressed very respectable. He was apparelled in a suit of my own reduced to size. BEATRICE. 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