the same time Brandon cries “Damnation!” Granillo’s scream dies down into a sobbing noise. There is a heavy thud as Brandon, cursing furiously, rushes over to the little lamp on the table and switches it on.
Brandon (blazing). What in God’s name do you mean?
[Granillo has sunk down by the chest with his arms on it.
Granillo. Oh—oh! Oh, God!
Brandon (fiercely). What’s the matter, man? Tell me what’s the matter!
Granillo (from arms). I thought it was him. I thought it was him! I thought it was Ronald!
[Brandon goes over and switches on light. Then he goes over to sideboard, and pours out large whisky, spilling some of it over. He brings it over to Granillo.
Brandon. For God’s sake, drink that.
[Granillo takes it and sips it feebly.
Be quick—be quick, man!
Granillo. Why were you sitting there? Why were you trying to frighten me?
Brandon. I wasn’t trying to frighten you. I was wondering what you were up to. I wasn’t even sure it was you. Why did you want to sneak in like that? You got what you deserved. Hang you—you’ve upset me.
Granillo. I wanted to see that everything was all right. I’m sorry. My nerve’s going. I’m all right. I’ll be all right. (Finishes the rest of the whisky with a gulp, and makes a wry face as it goes down.) I’ll be all right. Give me some more of that.
Brandon (taking glass). Get up, get up! (Goes and pours him out some more.)
[Granillo gets up and sits om chest. Brandon gives him another glass full of whisky-and-soda.
[ 48 ]
