(Grice re-enters through card room. They quickly turn their laughter into sobs and bury their faces in their handkerchiefs.)
Grice. (Coming down C.) I have been lingering, my dear Miss Faraday, just to grasp your hand and whisper a word of cheer. Keep up your heart, my dear. Keep up your heart. Remember there are other fish in the sea--big fish. (Bows and elaborately exits through card room.)
Celia. Old fool!--Isn't it a mercy I'm going to escape that sort of thing? There'd be a dozen more if I gave them a chance, but instead of that I'm going with you to Chicago to live and die a spinster with an unawakened soul.
Aunt Ida. (In a high tragedy tone) Celia, I have a queer feeling we're not done with this thing yet.
Celia. Why, of course we are, you dear; the steamship tickets are up in my room and I'm going with you to-morrow when you leave on the noon train. What a brick you've been through it all, Aunt Ida, what a brick!
Aunt Ida. (Laughing, then recovering herself and endeavoring to be moral. Crossing L.) You--you--you must never do it again, Celia.
Celia. Well, it's hardly the sort of thing one can do very often.
Aunt Ida. (Seriously) I never would have helped you send that notice to the Times, Celia, if--if--oh, dear. (Breaks down and laughs. Severely) Oh, but I consider your whole attitude most immoral.
Celia. (Meekly) Yes, Aunt Ida. I admit my behavior has been shocking and what a contrast to his. (Laughs.)
Aunt Ida. (Reprovingly) Celia!