Part 19 (1/2)

His nibs is d.a.m.ned exclusive, ain't he?

{First Man}

I've never got a direct instruction from him, and I've worked for him longer than you.

{Second Man}

Yes, and you worked for him for over two years before you knew who was hiring you.

{Hubbard}

(_To First Man._) You'd better go out in the hall and keep a watch for Knox. He may come in any time.

(_First Man produces skeleton keys and goes to door at right. The first key opens it. Leaving door slightly ajar, he makes exit._)

(_Desk telephone rings and startles Hubbard._)

{Second Man}

(_Grinning at Hubbard's alarm._)

It's only the phone.

{Hubbard}

(_Proceeding with search._) I suppose you've done lots of work for Stark--

{Second Man}

(_Mimicking him._) Sh-h. Don't breathe his name.

(_Telephone rings again and again, insistently, urgently._)

{Hubbard}

(_Disguising his voice._) h.e.l.lo--Yes.

(_Shows surprise, seems to recognize the voice, and smiles knowingly._)

No, this is not Knox. Some mistake. Wrong number--

(_Hanging up receiver and speaking to Second Man in natural voice._) She did hang up quick.

{Second Man}

You seemed to recognize her.

{Hubbard}

No, I only thought I did.