Jabez (_impatiently_). Oh, I've no time to waste now, John, (_John goes l. and leans head on mantelpiece._) I'll see you later. (_To Clavering_). I suppose Charlie's on his hind legs by now? (_Up to c. doors._)
Clav. Yes. That's the platform entrance. (_He crosses to it._)
Jabez. Wait a bit. Don't go yet. (_Clavering stops._) Open the door and let's listen to him. (_Clavering opens doors, disclosing Charlie's hack as he stands speaking on platform._)
Charlie (_off, c._). Your trade's dangerous. You don't make old bones. If you're not poisoned by fumes at forty, you're chucked on the scrap heap because you're no longer strong enough to work. Don't you deserve some compensation when you risk your lives every day you work, when you're only fit to work while you're young? Life is a handicap where the weakest starts at scratch and the devil takes the hindmost. (_Cheers. Clavering makes a questioning gesture._)
Jabez. No. Hear him out. (_Clavering nods, still holding the door open._)
Charlie (_off, c._). You're not dogs. You're men. (_Cheers._) You want decent homes and a bit of pleasure in life and something to put by for the time when you can't work! How are you going to do it?
Livesey (_off, c._). Demand higher wages. Strike! (_Cries off of "Strike," "More wages," "Vote."_)
Jabez (_motioning Clavering_). That'll do, Clavering. (_Clavering shuts the door and comes down stairs._)
John (_putting out his hand in timid appeal_). Jabez!
John. Don't be hard on me, Jabez. I've tried to stop him. I've done my best, indeed I have.
Jabez (_impatiently_). Oh, I've no time to waste now, John. Anyhow you'd better come in yonder with me. It'll show 'em you're not of the same mind as Charlie.
John (_eagerly_). Anything, Jabez. I'll do anything if you won't throw me over.
Jabez. Well, we'll see about that later. Come along.
(_Exit Jabez c., John following. Slight murmurs and hoots. Clavering goes up the stairs, hesitates, then closes the door and turns, looking at Rosie._)
Rosie (_coldly, looking up_). Did you speak to me, Dr. Clavering?
Clav. (_smilingly_). Yes. Mayn't I? (_Coming forward._)
Rosie (_huffily_). You can speak if you like. I don't undertake to reply.
Clav. I'm sorry if I've offended you. Won't you tell me why?