Faraday, (C.) Certainly not.

Smith. (R.C.) It would really be almost indecent to press Miss Faraday to go. (Smith and Faraday turn up stage.)

Steele. (Slightly piqued) Oh, very well. Then as I can't do anything for anyone, I suppose I had better be getting along. (Exits L.IE. and leaves door open.)

Raleigh. How that fellow Steele does give himself away. Silly ass! (Goes R. to Celia.) I must say, Miss Faraday, that I think you are absolutely right to stay away from the Admiral's. The way that old man dogs your footsteps is positively revolting, but--(With insinuating smile, kneeling on stool below sofa. Fatuously)--but you might come on to the Philharmonic Concert afterwards. Don't you think so? (Laughs idiotically.) Don't you think so?

Celia. (Shaking her head sadly) Not to-night, Mr. Raleigh. Not to-night. (Exits R.IE.)

Raleigh. Oh, very well. It's about time for me to be getting along. (Crosses quickly to door L.) I shall see you all at the Admiral's, (Exits quickly, closing door.)

Faraday. God bless my soul! I thought he came to give some of us a lift. Madge and Evelyn. Why, yes.

(Aunt Ida enters quickly through morning room and comes down R.C., looking about her.)

Aunt Ida. (Gayly) Hope I am not last.

Faraday. Well, you are.