She did
not press the charge. The arrested gentleman, who said he acted under
great provocation, was discharged with a caution." Well, I'm blowed!
He has gone and done it!
CAMILLE. A black eye!
TOPPING. [Gazing at her] Have you had any hand in this? I've seen you
making your lovely black eyes at him. You foreigners--you're a loose
lot!
CAMILLE. You are drunk!
TOPPING. Not yet, my dear. [Reverting to the paper; philosophically]
Well, this little lot's bust up! The favourites will fall down. Johnny
Builder! Who'd have thought it?
CAMILLE. He is an obstinate man.
TOPPING. Ah! He's right up against it now. Comes of not knowin' when
to stop bein' firm. If you meet a wall with your 'ead, it's any odds on
the wall, Camel. Though, if you listened to some, you wouldn't think it.
What'll he do now, I wonder? Any news of the mistress?
CAMILLE. [Shaking her head] I have pack her tr-runks.
TOPPING. Why?
CAMILLE. Because she take her jewels yesterday.
TOPPING. Deuce she did! They generally leave 'em. Take back yer gifts!
She throws the baubles at 'is 'ead. [Again staring at her] You're a
deep one, you know!
There is the sound of a cab stopping.
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