Belinda (with an exaggerated curtsy). I will recline in the hammock, an it please thee, my lord—
(Baxter goes to the right of the hammock, saying "Allow me." Devenish moves to the left of the hammock and holds it, takes up a cushion which Baxter snatches from him and places in hammock again.)
–only it's rather awkward getting in, Mr. Baxter. Perhaps you'd both better look at the tulips for a moment.
Baxter. Oh–ah–yes. (Crosses down R., turns his back to the hammock and examines the flowers.)
Devenish (leaning over her). If only—
Belinda. You'd better not say anything, Mr. Devenlsh. Keep it for your next volume. (He turns away and examines flowers on L. She sits on hammock.) One, two, three–(throws her legs over)–that was better than last time. (They turn round to see her safely in the hammock. Devenish leans against the L. tree at her feet, and Baxter draws the deck-chair from the right side of the table and turns it round towards her. He presses his hat more firmly on and sits down.) I wonder if either of you can guess what I've been reading this afternoon!
Devenish (looking at her lovingly). I know.
Belinda (giving him a fleeting look). How did you know?
Devenish. Well, I—
Belinda (to Baxter). Yes, Mr. Baxter, it was your article I was reading. If you'd come five minutes earlier you'd have found me wrestling–I mean revelling in it.