_The Scene represents a room in_ MR. ALLINGHAM’S _cottage at Epsom. On the left-hand side is a fireplace, with a fire burning; above this is a door giving on to the hall; while below it is a similar door, over which hangs a_ portière, _drawn aside, admitting to the dining-room. Facing us is a large open French window; and beyond is a view of a pretty garden with trees, laurels, etc. On the right, also facing us, but nearer, are a few balustered steps leading to an arched opening which is about three feet from the ground. The opening, across which runs a rod supporting a_ portière, _admits to a small room, which, although containing no books that are visible, is called the library. All the furniture and accessories are characteristic of a well-to-do bachelor’s residence. It is twilight._ DENZIL SHAFTO _and_ PETER ELPHICK, _two well-groomed, smart-looking men of about five-and-thirty, dressed for dinner, are shown in by_ QUAIFE, _a manservant_. QUAIFE _is carrying a banjo in a case_. SHAFTO. What time did Mr. Allingham get down? QUAIFE. [_Placing the banjo on the table._] Half an hour ago, sir; I’m now dressing him. [_To_ ELPHICK.] Glad you brought the banjo, Mr. Elphick. ELPHICK. [_A heavy-looking man with staring eyes, taking the banjo from its case with great care._] Nearly made me lose the train, Quaife, puzzlin’ whether to bring it or not. QUAIFE. [_Laying the case aside._] Do Mr. Allingham a load of good, sir—a little melody after dinner. SHAFTO. Mr. Allingham rather fatigued? QUAIFE. Never saw him so played out, sir. [_Closing the windows._] Oh, Mr. Allingham’s compliments, Mr. Shafto, and he says he forgot to inquire whether you and Mr. Elphick would sleep at The Lichens to-night. SHAFTO. Not to-night, thanks. I’ve arranged to take Mr. Elphick on to my father’s place at Leatherhead. ELPHICK. We shan’t keep you up here till the last train, Quaife, or anything like. Dessay Mr. Allingham’ll be glad to turn in early. QUAIFE. Not much good _him_ turning in, Mr. Elphick. SHAFTO. Queer nights lately, of sorts? QUAIFE. Shockin’, Mr. Shafto. [QUAIFE _goes out_. SHAFTO. [_Looking round._] Here we are again, Peter. ELPHICK. ’Pears so. SHAFTO. [_Wandering about._] This is my first visit to this box since Jack came back here after his split with his wife. ELPHICK. And mine; thought he’d sold it. SHAFTO.