CLIFTON (to RICHARD). Unofficially, Mr. Meriton, I am wedded to the
Muses.

VIOLA. Dick, isn't he lovely?

CRAWSHAW. Quite so. But just for the moment, Mr. Clifton, I take it
that we are concerned with legal business. Should I ever wish to
produce a play, the case would be different.

CLIFTON. Admirably put. Pray regard me entirely as the solicitor
for as long as you wish. (He puts his hat down on a chair with the
papers in it, and taking off his gloves, goes on dreamily) Mr.
Denis Clifton was superb as a solicitor. In spite of an indifferent
make-up, his manner of taking off his gloves and dropping them into
his hat--(He does so.)

MARGARET (to CRAWSHAW). I think, perhaps, Viola and I--

RICHARD (making a move too). We'll leave you to your business, Robert.

CLIFTON (holding up his hand). Just one moment if I may. I have a
letter for you, Mr. Meriton.

RICHARD (surprised). For me?

CLIFTON. Yes. My clerk, a man of the utmost integrity--oh, but I
said that before--he took it round to your rooms this morning, but
found only painters and decorators there. (He is feeling in his
pockets and now brings the letter out.) I brought it along, hoping