(He takes her hand, which she allows for a moment to rest in his. Suddenly Mollentrave's voice is heard outside. Sir Joseph falls back. The door opens and Mollentrave enters, perking and smiling, followed by Margaret.)
Sir J. (away R. aghast) Margaret!
Mollen. (very volubly R. C.) My dear fellow, Miss Messilent has had the charming idea to come here and fetch you. Miss Messilent, let me introduce you to my daughter, Lady Claude Derenham. An admirer of your fiancé—like us all!
Sir J. (R. blankly) Oh!
Marg. (C. shyly) Peters told me where you had gone—I thought—
Mollen. (R. C. beaming) Sweet of you! Balsted, I've told the young lady how immensely pleased we all are! And how lucky we think you, at your time of life, to have secured so lovely a bride!
Sir J. (clearing his throat) I—er—I—
Mollen. My dear Balsted, I am sure I am not speaking my opinion alone when I say that never did—November—find so delicious a May! When is the wedding to be?
Sir J. (away R. savagely, beneath his breath) Wedding, wedding—
Marg. (sitting on stool C. Lady C. sits L. of C. table—coyly) He made me promise it would be soon—