CLIFTON. Dear me, what a situation! (Thoughtfully to himself) I
wonder how a rough scenario would strike the managers.

RICHARD. Poor Mr. Clifton!

CLIFTON. Why poor?

RICHARD. You missed all the best part. You didn't hear what I said
to Crawshaw about money before you came.

CLIFTON (thoughtfully). Oh I was it very--(Brightening up) But I
expect Uncle Antony heard. (After a pause) Well, I must be getting
on. I wonder if you've noticed any important papers lying about, in
connection with the Great Missenden Canal Company--a most intricate
case, in which my clerk and I--(He has murmured himself across to
the fireplace, and the fragments of his important case suddenly
catch his eye. He picks up one of the fragments.) Ah, yes. Well, I
shall tell my clerk that we lost the case. He will be sorry. He had
got quite fond of that canal. (He turns to go, but first says to
MERITON) So you're taking the money, Mr. Meriton?

RICHARD. Yes.

CLIFTON. And Mr. Crawshaw too?

RICHARD. Yes.

CLIFTON (to himself as he goes out). They are both taking it. (He
stops and looks up to UNCLE ANTONY with a smile.) Good old Uncle