ALICE. Oh, it's you. I hoped it was father going out.

MAGGIE. It isn't. (_She crosses and takes her place at desk_
L.)

ALICE. He _is_ late this morning.

MAGGIE. He got up late. (_She busies herself with an account
book_.)

VICKEY. (_reading_). Has he had breakfast yet, Maggie?

MAGGIE. Breakfast! With a Masons' meeting last night!

VICKEY. He'll need reviving.

ALICE. Then I wish he'd go and do it.

VICKEY. Are you expecting anyone, Alice?

ALICE. Yes, I am, and you know I am, and I'll thank you both to
go when he comes.

VICKEY. Well, I'll oblige you, Alice, if father's gone out first,
only you know I can't leave the counter till he goes.

(ALBERT PROSSER _enters from the street. He is twenty-six,
nicely dressed, as the son of an established solicitor would be.
He crosses to_ R. _and raises his hat to _ALICE.)