do not imagine there is anything more (She does not look at him as she says this)
Forman (not looking at Madge—eyes front). Certainly not, ma'am. Anyway, if I did imagine there was something more I'm sure you'd find it to your interest, ma'am, to remember my faithful services in helpin' to keep it quiet.
Madge (after slight pause, during which she looks steadily in front). Judson, what sort of a fool are you?
(Forman turns to her with feigned astonishment.)
(Speaks with sharp, caustic utterances, almost between her teeth. Turns to him.) Do you imagine I would take a house, and bring this girl and her mother here, and keep up the establishment for nearly two years without protecting myself against the chance of petty blackmail by my own servants?
Forman (protestingly). Ah—ma'am—you misunderstand me—I
Madge (rising—throws paper on to the piano). I understand you too well! And now I beg you to understand me. I have had a trifle of experience in the selection of my servants, and can recognize certain things when I see them! It was quite evident from your behaviour you had been in something yourself, and it didn't take me long to get it out of you. You are a self-confessed forger.
Forman (quick movement of apprehension). No! (Apprehensive look around.) Don't speak out like that! (Recovers a little.) It was—it was in confidence—I told you in confidence ma'am.
Madge. Well, I'm telling you in confidence that at the first sign of any underhand conduct on your part this little episode of yours will
Forman (hurriedly—to prevent her from speaking it). Yes, yes! I will—bear it in mind, ma'am. I will bear it in mind!
Madge (after a sharp look at him as if satisfying herself that he is now reduced to proper condition). Very well. . . . (Moves down R.) Now, as to the maid—Térèse
(Forman, near C.—inclines head for instruction.)
Do you think of anything which might explain her assertion that she will not be here to-morrow? (Facing front.)
Forman (his eyes turned away from Madge. Speaking in low tones, and behaviour subdued as if completely humiliated). It has occurred to me, ma'am, since you first asked me regarding the matter, that she may have taken exceptions to some occurrences which she thinks she 'as seen going on in this 'ouse.
Madge. I'll raise her wages if I find it necessary; tell her so. If it isn't money that she wants—I'll see her myself.
Forman. Very well, ma'am. (He turns and exits quietly up C.)
