For example, we
might argue the artistic value of the pictures admittedly the work of
Mr. X. That would probably occupy us for about ten years. Or we might
ask ourselves how it happened that that exceedingly astute dealer, Mr.
Ebag, came to sell as a genuine Ilam Carve, without offering any
explanation, a picture which, on the face of it, was painted some time
after that great painter had received a national funeral in Westminster
Abbey.
EBAG. Sheer carelessness, my lord.
ALCAR. Or we might ask ourselves why a valet should try to pass himself
off as a world-renowned artist. Or, on the other hand, why a
world-renowned artist should pass himself off as a valet.
CARVE. Sheer carelessness, my lord.
ALCAR. But these details of psychology are beside the main point. And
the main point is (to CARVE)--Are you Ilam Carve or are you Albert
Shawn? (To the others.) Surely with a little goodwill and
unembarrassed by the assistance of experts, lawyers, and wigs generally,
we can settle that! And once it is settled the need for a trial ceases.
Pages:
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144