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Plays: Lady Frederick, The Explorer, A Man of Honour

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2017
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THE FOURTH ACT

The Next Morning

[The scene is the same as in the Second Act, the drawing-room at Basil's house in Putney. Basil is sitting at the table, with his head in his hands. He looks tired and worn; his face is very white, and there are great black lines under his eyes. His hair is dishevelled. On the table lies a revolver.

    [A knock at the door.

Basil

[Without looking up.] Come in.

    [Fanny enters.]

Fanny

[Subdued and pale.] I came to see if you wanted anything, sir.

Basil

[Looking up at her slowly, his voice is dull and hoarse.] No.

Fanny

Shall I open the windows, Sir? It's a beautiful morning.

Basil

No, I'm cold. Make up the fire.

Fanny

Wouldn't you like a cup of tea? You ought to 'ave something after not going to bed all night.

Basil

I don't want anything… Don't worry, there's a good woman.

    [Fanny puts coals on the fire, while BASILlistlessly watches her.

Basil

How long is it since you sent the telegrams?

Fanny

I took them the moment the office was opened.

Basil

What's the time?

Fanny

Well, sir, it must be 'alf-past nine by now.

Basil

Good Heavens, how slowly the hours go. I thought the night would never end… Oh, God, what shall I do?

Fanny

I'll make you a strong cup of tea. If you don't 'ave something to pull you together – I don't know what'll 'appen to you.

Basil

Yes, make it quickly, I'm thirsty… And I'm so cold.

    [A ring at the front door is heard.

Basil

[Jumping up.] There's some one at the door, Fanny. Hurry up.

    [She goes out, and he follows her to the door of the room.

Basil

Fanny, don't let any one up beside Mr. Halliwell. Say I can see no one. [He waits for a moment, anxiously.] Is that you, John?

John

[Outside.] Yes.

Basil

[To himself.] Thank God!

    [John comes in.

Basil

I thought you were never coming. I begged you to come at once.

John

I started immediately I got your wire.

Basil

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