LADY PEMBURY. Oh! (She stops and then comes towards THE STRANGER) How do you do? Are you waiting to see my husband?
STRANGER (taken aback at seeing her). Yes.
(He is not sure for the moment if this upsets his plans or forwards them.)
LADY PEMBURY. I think he's engaged just now. But he won't be long. Perkins will tell him as soon as he is free.
STRANGER (contemptuously). His name is Perkins, is it?
LADY PEMBURY (surprised). The butler? Yes.
STRANGER (contemptuously). Mister Perkins, the Butler.
LADY PEMBURY (with a friendly smile). You don't mind our having a butler? (She picks up some work from the table and takes it to the sofa)
STRANGER (shrugging his shoulders). One more parasite.
LADY PEMBURY (interested). I always thought parasites were much smaller than Perkins. (Sitting down) Do sit down, won't you? (He sits down reluctantly.) You mustn't mind my being here. This is really my work-room. I expect my husband will take you into his own room when he's ready.