IF I HAD A FATHER. A DRAMA. ACT I. SCENE. A Sculptor's studio. ARTHUR GERVAISE working at a clay figure and humming a tune. A knock. Ger. Come in. (Throws a wet cloth over the clay. Enter WARREN by the door communicating with the house.) Ah, Warren! How you do? do War. How are you, Gervaise? I'm delighted to see you once more. I have but just heard of your return. Ger. I've been home but a fortnight. I War. I was certain I should find you at work. Ger. You see my work can go on by any light. It is more independent than yours. War. I wish it weren't, then. Ger. Why? War. Because there would be a chance of our getting you out of your den sometimes. Ger. Like any other wild beast when the dark falls-eh? War. Just so. Ger. And where the good? War. Why shouldn't you roar a little now and then like other honest lions? Ger. I doubt if the roaring lions do much beyond roaring. War. And I doubt whether the lion that won't even whisk his tail, will get food enough shoved through his bars to make it worth his while to keep a cage in London. Ger. I certainly shall not make use of myself to recommend my work. War. What is it now? Ger. Oh, nothing!-only a little fancy of my own. War. There again! The moment I set foot in your study, you throw the sheet over your clay, and when I ask you what you are working at "Oh-a little fancy of my own!" Ger. I couldn't tell it was you coming. War. Let me see what you've been doing, then. Ger. Oh, she's a mere Lot's-wife as yet! War. (approaching the figure). Of course, of course! I understand all that. Ger. (laying his hand on his arm). Excuse me I would rather not show it. War. I beg your pardon.-I couldn't believe you really meant it. Ger. I'll show you the mould if you like. : that you would never throw a wet sheet over a cast! (GER. lifts a painting from the floor and sets it on an easel. WAR. regards it VOL. II G |