thought you were dead long ago. Sit down. [Schutzmacher sits on
the couch: Ridgeon on the chair between it and the window]. Where
have you been these thirty years?

SCHUTZMACHER. In general practice, until a few months ago. I've
retired.

RIDGEON. Well done, Loony! I wish I could afford to retire. Was
your practice in London?

SCHUTZMACHER. No.

RIDGEON. Fashionable coast practice, I suppose.

SCHUTZMACHER. How could I afford to buy a fashionable practice? I
hadnt a rap. I set up in a manufacturing town in the midlands in
a little surgery at ten shillings a week.

RIDGEON. And made your fortune?

SCHUTZMACHER. Well, I'm pretty comfortable. I have a place in
Hertfordshire besides our flat in town. If you ever want a quiet
Saturday to Monday, I'll take you down in my motor at an hours
notice.

RIDGEON. Just rolling in money! I wish you rich g.p.'s would
teach me how to make some. Whats the secret of it?

SCHUTZMACHER. Oh, in my case the secret was simple enough, though
I suppose I should have got into trouble if it had attracted any