Our prisons are so well conducted now. Many consider them quite as comfortable as as most of the hotels. Quieter and more orderly.
Madge. How the prisons are conducted is no concern of mine! There is nothing they can hold me for nothing!
Holmes. Oh, to to be sure. (Putting fresh cigarette in mouth.) There may be something in that. Still, it occurred to me that you might prefer to be near your unfortunate husband, eh? (Rises from table and goes up C. to gas burner. Slight good natured chuckle.) We hear a great deal about the heroic devotion of wives, and all that (lights cigarette at gas) rubbish. You know, Mrs. Larrabee, we come right down to it
(Forman carelessly relinquishes his hold on Madge's arm, and seems to have his attention called to door R. Stands as if listening to something outside. Madge gives a quick glance about and at Holmes who is lighting a cigarette at the gas, and apparently not noticing anything. She makes a sudden dash for the window down L., quickly snaps up blind and makes a rapid motion up and down before window with right hand—then turns quickly, facing Holmes with triumphant defiance. Holmes is still lighting cigarette.)
Many thanks. (To Forman) That's all, Forman. Pick her up again.
(Forman at once goes to Madge and turns her down L., and waits in front of window holding her right wrist.)
Doctor, would you kindly pull the blinds down once more. I don't care to be shot from the street.
(Watson instantly pulls down blind.)
(Note. Special care must be exercised regarding these window blinds. They must be made specially strong and solid, so that no failure to operate is possible.)
Madge (down L., in triumph). Ah! It's too late.
Holmes. Too late, eh? (Strolling a little down C.)
Madge. The signal is given. You will hear from him soon.
Holmes (up C.). It wouldn't surprise me at all.
(Door bell rings R.)
(Voices of Billy and Parsons outside R. Door R. at once opened, and Billy on a little way, but held back by Parsons for an instant. He breaks away from Parsons and comes R.C. All very quick, Billy dressed as a street gamin, and carrying a bunch of evening papers. Parsons stands R.)
(As Billy comes to R.C.) I think I shall hear from him now. (Shout) Let (Billy stands panting) him go, Parsons. Quick, Billy. (Billy comes close to Holmes.)
Billy. He's just come, sir.
