The Reckoning | Page 4

just about to cross the river, when your eyes are beginning to glaze and your heart's about to stop beating, you won't be nearer death than you were a minute ago!
THE CUSTOMER. Why didn't you kill me?
THE BARBER. It wouldn't bring back Jennie, would it?
THE CUSTOMER. (With a sneer) Were you afraid?
THE BARBER. After I had been looking forward to it for twelve years? No.
THE CUSTOMER. Then why--
THE BARBER. (Grimly) You'll remember why! (He helps him on with his coat.) John, tell me: are fellows who are so brave with women always so cowardly when they deal with men? Or, (breaking off, speaking slowly), or, perhaps, was it on account of that meeting?
THE CUSTOMER. That meeting? Good Lord!
THE BARBER. Yes, the meeting.
THE CUSTOMER. (Looking at the clock) Twenty-five minutes past! I'm ruined! I'm ruined!
THE BARBER. (Half to himself) I didn't kill you, no! I left you your life, but I made it worthless! I broke you! I broke you!
THE CUSTOMER. (Has crossed stealthily to the door) Kilburn!
THE BARBER. (Startled at the sudden change in his voice) Yes?
THE CUSTOMER. (Hysterically) Thought I was a fool, did you? Thought I'd tell you the real time of the meeting?
THE BARBER. What do you mean?
THE CUSTOMER. (Shrieking) You ass! You idiot! The meeting doesn't begin till three-thirty!
THE BARBER. (Calmly) Is that all? Well, the clock (pointing to it) is half an hour slow.

CURTAIN

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