Page:Grimshaw, Bagshaw and Bradshaw.djvu/16

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12
GRIMSHAW, BAGSHAW, AND BRADSHAW.
Pan. Yes, Sir—and now that you find that this apartment is occupied, of course you'll return to yours immediately!
Bag. And leave two such charming neighbors? oh dear, no! you don't know John Bagshaw!—the fact is, I have a favor to ask of you, which, from its trifling nature, I venture to consider as already granted.
Fan. What is it, Sir?
Bag. Simply that you will allow me to occupy your apartment till to-morrow morning, that's all!
Fan. With us.
Bag. Of course! Pray don't think of turning out on my account,—besides, I'm easily satisfied—I can sleep anywhere, and I never snore!
Fan. (after a pause of speechless astonishment) Never heard such a thing in all my life! Leave the room this moment, fellow, or we'll turn you out!
Emily. Yes, we'll turn you out!
Bag. Then, I must appeal to your sympathies, ladies. Were you ever in danger of being arrested for your tailor's bill? I am! Eight pounds five—and I've only twelve pounds ten in my pocket.
Fan. Then why don't you pay it?
Bag. Because, with that twelve pounds ten I've got to buy a gold watch and chain for the future Mrs. Bagshaw, Miss Amelia Jones—perhaps you know her—a sweet little creature, keeps a little tobacconist's shop, a little way up Little Windmill Street.
Fan. Then why not change your lodgings?
Bag. I do nothing else but change my lodgings! I've changed them seventeen times already in the last six weeks; but the scoundrel sticks to me like my shadow!
Fan. Who?
Bag. The Sheriff's officer! I saw him just now leaning up against a lamp-post on the opposite side of the street, with his eyes fixed on the second floor. (crosses to l.)
Fan. Towzer!
&
Emily
Fan. (aside to Emily) Then he's not looking for you or Mr. Bradshaw either, after all. (aloud to Bagshaw) We're sorry for you, young man; but at any rate you can't be arrested to-night!