Madge. That's it! He's just the one—and there's hardly any time left! They'll take my poor brother away to prison to-morrow! (Shows signs of breaking down again.)
Watson. There, there, Mrs. Seaton—pray control yourself.
Madge (choking down sobs). Now what would you advise me to do?
Watson. I'd go to Mr. Holmes at once.
Madge. But I've been. I've been, and he wasn't there!
Watson. You went to his house?
Madge. Yes—in Baker Street. That's why I come to you! They said he might be here!
Watson. No—he isn't here! (Turns away slightly.)
(Madge looks deeply discouraged.)
Madge. But don't you expect him some time this evening?
Watson. No. (Shaking head.) There's no of possibility of his coming—so far as I know.
Madge. But couldn't you get him to come? (Pause.) It would be such a great favour to me—I'm almost worn out with going about—and with this dreadful anxiety! If you could get word to him to—{(sees that Watson is looking at her strangely and sharply)—to come.
(Brief pause.)
Watson (rising—rather hard voice). I could not get him to come, madam. And I beg you to excuse me. I am going out myself—(looks at watch)—on urgent business. (Rings bell.)
Madge (rising). Oh, certainly! Don't let me detain you! And you think I had better call at his house again?
Watson. (coldly). That will be the wisest thing to do.
Madge. Oh, thank you so much. (Extends her hand.) You don't know how you've encouraged me!
(Watson withdraws his hand, as he still looks al her. Enter Parsons at door R. He stands at door.)
Well—good night, doctor.
(Watson simply bows coldly. Madge turns to go. The crash of a capsizing vehicle, followed by excited shouts of men, is heard. This must be as if outside the house with doors closed, and not close at hand. Madge stops suddenly on hearing the crash, and shouts. Watson looks at Patsons.)
Watson. What's that, Parsons?
Parsons. I really can't say, sir, but it sounded to me like a haccident.
Madge (turning to Watson near C.). Oh dear! I do hope it isn't anything serious! It affects me terribly to know that anyone is hurt.
