(OLIVER comes along. SEPTIMA hesitates. She “means to have it out this time.”)
SEPTIMA (irresolutely). Grandfather——
BLAYDS. Well?
MARION. Come along, dear.
SEPTIMA (overawed by the majesty of BLAYDS). Oh—all right. (They go. But she will certainly have it out next time.)
WILLIAM (in a whisper to ROYCE). The Address? (To BLAYDS) Mr. Royce has a message of congratulation from some of the younger writers, which he wishes to present to you, sir. Mr. Royce——
(ROYCE comes forward with it.)
[210]BLAYDS. It is very good of them.
ROYCE (doubtfully). Shall I read it, sir?
BLAYDS (smiling). The usual thing?