Celia. (In dry, queer voice) I didn't know that.
(READY Third Border.)
Smith. He was the most popular fellow--! You won't go to a dance or a garden party for the rest of your life--there won't be a town in the United Kingdom, Miss Faraday, where you won't meet somebody, some old school-fellow, some brother-officer, who knew him:--who will understand your loss and tell you new details of Wobbles. (Rises.)
Celia. (Rises and comes down stage) Not if I know it! (Smith stares at her. Returning, getting her chair and replacing it at table) Colonel Vavasour--I mean it will be quite impossible for me--to indulge myself in any such fashion. Because just as soon as possible, I'm sailing for America.
Smith. (Dropping below table) America? Why, Smith has--four brothers ranching there. And five--I mean three--sisters-in-law. I congratulate you, Miss Faraday. (Offers Celia his hand. Celia takes it limply and he shakes it.) You are going to the very heart of poor Wobbles' family. Shan't I cable them to meet you at the dock? (They are both now in front of table.)
Celia. (Withdrawing her hand) No--no--no--no, please don't do anything like that.
Smith. Why not?
Celia. Well, I don't know, but I--I might get off the ship before it reaches New York. At all events I am going where no one can ever find me.
Smith. (Quickly, but quite seriously) Then--by Jove--I'm going there too. (Takes her left hand tenderly and leans forward. They look straight into each other's eyes for a moment.)
Celia. (Draws herself up) Aren't you forgetting yourself, Colonel Vavasour? (With an irresistible impulse of mischief) Or are you only forgetting Wobbles? (Crosses C. to table. Looking back at spot on table.)