Phyllis. (Showing resentment) Oh, Aunt Ida! (Evelyn laughs.)
Tarver. (Rises, gives Aunt Ida a resentful look, turns up R. by fender and addresses Evelyn) But the great thing now is to get old Grice to propose to Miss Celia.
Evelyn. (Very patronizingly) Why, yes, Bobby. Then out of gratitude she might go out and canvass for you.
Tarver. (Doubtfully) Ye-es, that would be very nice, of course. (Rises enthusiastically.) But fascinating girls are what is needed at a time like this--like you, Lady Trenchard, and Phyllis and Mrs. Rockingham. (He bows to each as he addresses them. Going up to Madge at desk R.) I say, when is your husband coming back from India?
Madge. Not till Christmas. (Rises.)
Tarver. Then you can spend all your time canvassing for me, can't you?
Madge. (Patronizingly) Oh, of course, Bobby.
Tarver. (Crossing L. to C.) Thanks awfully. And you two girls can do the same. But your sister--well---- (Madge comes to head of magazine table.)
Aunt Ida. (Turning on him quickly) Well, what, Mr. Tarver?
Tarver. (Very diffidently) Well, I'm afraid she wouldn't be of much use--you see, she's rather difficult--isn't she?