(_JOBBINS enters, hat in hand and umbrella under arm; he is a stout
man, rather shabbily dressed in tweed, with tweed frock-coat, and has
a square-topped bowler._)
JOBBINS. My name is Jobbins, sir. (_Gives large card._) Private inquiry
and detective agent, utmost secrecy and despatch, parties watched,
missing relatives traced, divorces ensured.
JACK. This is a very simple matter, Mr. Jobbins. The gentleman who
resides here left home suddenly. I want him fetched back at once.
(_Sits and writes note as:_)
JOBBINS. Yes, sir (_goes up, then returns_), where is he? (_With
notebook open to take notes._)
JACK. Brighton.
JOBBINS (_notes_). Brighton--what hotel, sir?
JACK. Do you think if I knew what hotel I should require a detective?
JOBBINS. Then how am I to find him?
JACK. The best thing will be to take the first train to Brighton.
JOBBINS (_notes_). First train to Brighton.
JACK. He may be at a boarding-house.
JOBBINS (_notes_). Possibly a boarding-house.
JACK. When you find him give him this note (_closing it and giving
it_), and send me a wire. (_Gives five-pound note._) There is some cash
for your expenses.
STELLA. How is he to know Walter?
JACK. Isn’t there a photograph? (_Finds one on mantel R._) Here we are.
(_Gives it._)
JOBBINS. I’ll walk about the Brighton streets with this--why, I seen
this gent in the public gardens five minutes ago.
JACK. Then after him and bring him back.
JOBBINS (_at D. in F._). You’ll hear from me--BY WIRE.
(_Exit._)
JACK (_calls out after him_). Follow him to Victoria; if you miss him,
go right on. (_Comes down._) I’ve forgotten these telegrams.
STELLA. I’ll take them.
JACK (_gives them_). Have you any cash?