Mollen. (fatuously) On the contrary—I—
Lady C. (up and down L. C.) Is it his title appeals to you—his houses, his money? Years ago, I was obedient—my husband, too, had a title—and you know how dearly I paid for it.... Weave no webs round me! The fly has grown wary—and it has had the advantage, too, of studying the wiles of the spider!
Mollen. I quite admit, my dear, that Contareen's change of attitude is reprehensible—very. And I have not the least doubt—
Lady C. (smiling sorrowfully) You are incorrigible!
Mollen. My dear child! Since I tell you—
Lady C. Ah—I see that I shall have to provide you—with material for a new chapter!
(She kisses him—he purrs complacently. The door opens and Martin ushers in Sir Joseph, who is wildly excited.)
Martin. Sir Joseph Balsted.
Mollen. (eagerly) Balsted! (rise and across to R.)
Sir J. (R. C.) Mollentrave,—awful—the little idiot imagined you were proposing for me!