George Baker - Comrades

Mar.Were friends, dear friends; that you were the only one who reached out a helping hand to me a destitute stranger, when I entered yonder city, five years ago.

Simon.None of that, Mark. Don’t be shabby; helping hand, indeed, to a loft in the sixth story, a bed on a heap of rags, and dry bread washed down with water.

Mar.Divided your substance with me. Sim, when I forget your kindness, may I be as hungry as I was then.

Simon.Yes; but, Mark —

Mar.Hush. Here comes Miss Bess.

Simon.Then I’ll just step outside ( going ).

Mar( detaining him ). Not a step.

Bess.Nancy will be here in a minute. Mr. —

Mar( coming down L., leading Simon, the right hands clasped ). Bess, Miss Bradley, allow me to present a very dear friend, – Mr. Simon Stone, my chum.

Bess.Indeed ( offering her hand ). Mr. Stone, you are very welcome here.

Simon( takes hand ). Ah – yes; thank you. Thank you – very kind ( goes L.). Chums. Chums, – before her, too. There’s nothing shabby about that.

Mar.We’ll leave you, Simon, to your friend; but don’t go until I’ve seen you again.

Bess.Oh, no. You must stop to dinner.

Simon.Yes, thank you, much obliged. Well, now, that’s hearty; pretty as a picture, and he, there’s nothing shabby about him. Now, for Nancy. Won’t her eyes glisten when she sees me in this stunning get-up. I never did care for dress, but when I made up my mind to look after Nancy again, I said to myself, “Simon, don’t be shabby; do the thing in style;” and here I am, bran’ new from top to toe, from shampoo to shining leather, but with the same old heart inside of me, advancing double-shuffle to the tune of “Nancy is my darling.”

Nancy.Now, I’d like to know who – Good gracious! it’s Simon Stone.

Simon.Nancy, it is. Simon, your Simon. How dye do ( offers hand ).

Nancy.Well, I declare! rigged out like a dancing-jack. You extravagant dog!

Simon( turning round ). Gay, ain’t it. Cut to order by an artist, ( turns round ); look at the “elegance of expression” in the back of that coat, and the tout ensemble

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