ANNE. I don’t know whether I ought to ask you.

NICHOLAS. Of course you ought!

ANNE. But you see, we are friends—almost like brother and sister——

[159]NICHOLAS (disappointed). Well, I shouldn’t put it quite like that——

ANNE. And I thought I might ask you——

NICHOLAS. Of course, Anne! You know I would do anything for you.

ANNE. Yes.... Well—well—— (In a rush) Well, then, will you lend me one pound two and sixpence till next Monday?

NICHOLAS. Lend you——!

ANNE. To-day’s Friday, I’ll send you the money off on Sunday. I promise. Of course I know one oughtn’t to borrow from men, but you’re different. Almost like a brother. I knew you would understand.

NICHOLAS. But—but—I don’t understand.