Richard monologue (Act 1) — The Devil's Disciple

(_on the threshold, taking off his hat_). Ladies and gentlemen: your servant, your very humble servant. (_With this comprehensive insult, he throws his hat to Christy with a suddenness that makes him jump like a negligent wicket keeper, and comes into the middle of the room, where he turns and deliberately surveys the company._) How happy you all look! how glad to see me! (_He turns towards Mrs. Dudgeon’s chair; and his lip rolls up horribly from his dog tooth as he meets her look of undisguised hatred._) Well, mother: keeping up appearances as usual? that’s right, that’s right. (_Judith pointedly moves away from his neighborhood to the other side of the kitchen, holding her skirt instinctively as if to save it from contamination. Uncle Titus promptly marks his approval of her action by rising from the sofa, and placing a chair for her to sit down upon._) What! Uncle William! I haven’t seen you since you gave up drinking. (_Poor Uncle William, shamed, would protest; but Richard claps him heartily on his shoulder, adding_) you have given it up, haven’t you? (_releasing him with a playful push_) of course you have: quite right too; you overdid it. (_He turns away from Uncle William and makes for the sofa._) And now, where is that upright horsedealer Uncle Titus? Uncle Titus: come forth. (_He comes upon him holding the chair as Judith sits down._) As usual, looking after the ladies.