Algernon was not a gentleman of dainty proportions and had a tendency to perspire profusely. Dressed from head to toe in rich, red velvet he had been on stage now for half an hour. He embraced, at the appropriate moment, his diminutive co-star who appeared to visibly wilt as she became aware that not a single part of his costume was now dry.

Barbara unhooked her bra, removed it and hung it on the door handle. It was the signal she always used to let the postman know she was awaiting a delivery.