Watson. I'm sure, gentlemen, that you will appreciate the fact
Alice (stepping toward C. interrupting). Wait a moment, Doctor Watson! (Going to Sir Edward.) Here is the package, Sir Edward! (Hands it to Sir Edward at once, R.C.)
(Watson motions to Parsons off R. to come on.)
Holmes (turning to Alice). No! (Down a little.)
Alice (to Holmes). Yes (Turning to Holmes. Pause.) I much prefer that he should have them. Since you came that night and asked me to give them to you, I have thought of what you said. You were right, it was revenge. (She looks down a moment, then suddenly turns away to L. and stands down L.)
(Holmes stands motionless a little up C., near corner of desk, his eyes down and a little to R. Parsons enters at door R., and stands waiting with Sir Edward's hat in his hand, which he took from off pedestal.)
Sir Edward. We are greatly indebted to you, Miss Faulkner— (Looks at von Stalburg.)
von Stalburg. To be sure!
Sir Edward. And to you, too, Mr. Holmes—if this was a part of the game. (Motionless pause all round. Examining papers carefully. Count looking at them also.) It was certainly an extraordinary method of obtaining possession of valuable papers—but we won't quarrel with the method as long us it accomplished the desired result! Eh, Count? (Placing package in breast pocket and buttoning coat.)
Count. Certainly not, Sir Edward.
(Watson moves up near R.C.)
Sir Edward (turning to Holmes). You have only to notify me of the charge for your services (Alice gives a little look of bitterness at the word "charge")—Mr. Holmes, and you will receive a cheque. I have the honour to wish you—good night.
(Music till end of Act.)
(Bowing punctiliously.) Dr. Watson. (Bowing to Watson.) This way, Count.
(Watson bows and follows them to door R. Holmes does not move. Count von Stalburg bows to Holmes and to Watson and exits at door R., followed by Sir Edward. Parsons exits after giving Sir Edward his hat. Watson quietly turns and sees Holmes beckoning to him. Watson goes to Holmes up C., who whispers to him, after which he quietly exits at C. door. Holmes, after a moment's pause, looks at Alice and then goes down L.C.)
Howlmes (speaks hurriedly). Now that you think it over, Miss Faulkner, you arc doubtless beginning to realize the series of tricks
