He had a very good place as groom in the country; but it made such a stir, because of course he didn't treat me right.

 

MARLOW. Got the sack?

 

MRS. JONES. Yes; his employer said he couldn't keep him, because there was a great deal of talk; and he said it was such a bad example. But it's very important for me to keep my work here; I have the three children, and I don't want him to come about after me in the streets, and make a disturbance as he sometimes does.

 

MARLOW. [Holding up the empty decanter.] Not a drain! Next time he hits you get a witness and go down to the court—

 

MRS. JONES. Yes, I think I've made up my mind. I think I ought to.

 

MARLOW. That's right. Where's the ciga—?

 

[He searches for the silver box; he looks at MRS. JONES, who is sweeping on her hands and knees; he checks himself and stands reflecting. From the tray he picks two half-smoked cigarettes, and reads the name on them.]

 

Nestor—where the deuce—?

 

[With a meditative air he looks again at MRS. JONES, and, taking up JACK'S overcoat, he searches in the pockets. WHEELER, with a tray of breakfast things, comes in.]

 

MARLOW. [Aside to WHEELER.] Have you seen the cigarette-box?

 

WHEELER. No.

 

MARLOW. Well, it's gone. I put it on the tray last night. And he's been smoking. [Showing her the ends of cigarettes.] It's not in these pockets. He can't have taken it upstairs this morning! Have a good look in his room when he comes down. Who's been in here?

 

WHEELER. Only me and Mrs. Jones.

 

MRS. JONES. I've finished here; shall I do the drawing-room now?

 

WHEELER. [Looking at her doubtfully.] Have you seen—Better do the boudwower first.

 

[MRS. JONES goes out with pan and brush. MARLOW and WHEELER look each other in the face.]

 

MARLOW.