(He stands close in front of SIR JOHN, looking at him. LADY PEMBURY watches them steadfastly.)
PEMBURY (tapping his cheque-book against his hand). Important?
STRANGER. I came to ask your help.
PEMBURY (looking at his cheque-book and then back with a smile at THE STRANGER). A good many people do that. Have you any special claim on me?
STRANGER (after a long pause). No.
(PEMBURY looks at him, undecided, LADY PEMBURY comes forward.)
LADY PEMBURY. All right, dear. (Meaning that she will look after THE STRANGER till he comes back.)
PEMBURY. I'll be back in a moment. (He nods and hurries out)
(There is silence for a little, and then LADY PEMBURY claps her hands gently.)
LADY PEMBURY (with shining eyes). Oh, brave, brave! Ah, but I am a proud stepmother to-day. (She holds out her hand to him) Thank you, son.