MARION (_writing_). Oliver Blayds, ninety to-day. WILLIAM. The veteran poet spent his ninetieth birthday—— MARION (_to herself_). The veteran poet—— WILLIAM. Passed his ninetieth birthday—that’s better—passed his ninetieth birthday quietly, amid his family—— MARION. Amid his family—— WILLIAM. At his well-known house—residence—in Portman Square. (_He stops suddenly. You thought he was just dictating, but his brain has been working all the time, and he has come to a decision. He announces it._) We will drink the health in here. See that there is an extra glass for Mr. Royce. “In Portman Square”—have you got that? MARION. Yes, dear. WILLIAM. Mr. William Blayds-Conway, who courteously gave—granted our representative an interview, informed us that the poet was in good health—— It’s a pity you never learnt shorthand, Marion. MARION. I did try, dear. WILLIAM (_remembering that historic effort_). Yes, I know ... in good health—— MARION. Good health—— WILLIAM. And keenly appreciative of the many tributes of affection which he had received. MARION. Which he had received. WILLIAM. Among those who called during the day were—— MARION. Yes, dear? WILLIAM. Fill that in from the visitors’ book. (_He holds out his hand for the paper_) How does that go? MARION (_giving it to him_). I wasn’t quite sure how many “p’s” there were in appreciative. WILLIAM. Two. MARION. Yes, I thought two was safer. WILLIAM (_handing it back to her_). Yes, that’s all right. (_Bringing out his keys_) I shall want to make a few notes while Mr. Royce is being received. It may be that Oliver Blayds will say something worth recording. One would like to get something if it were possible. (_He has unlocked a drawer in the table and brought out his manuscript book._) And see that that goes off now. I should think about eight names. Say three Society, three Artistic and Literary, and two Naval, Military and Political. (_Again you see his brain working.... He has come to another decision. He announces it._) Perhaps two Society would be enough. MARION. Yes, dear. (_Beginning to make for the door_) Will there be anything else you’ll want? (_Holding out the paper_) After I’ve done this? WILLIAM (_considering_). No ... no.... I’m coming with you. (_Taking out his keys_) I must get the port. (_He opens the door for her, and they go out together._)