H. (with an effort). Possibly Sir Charles Grand—I mean Mr. Edward Tennant—may have a narrowing influence. (Aside.) It is no use. I can’t be discreet. Confound Mr. Edward Tennant!
E. (innocently). Perhaps. (Drinks tea.) And so you are engaged to Mattie Montgomery?
H. (formally). You do me too much honor.
E. Really! (More coolly.) That is a pity. I hoped we might proffer mutual congratulations. An exchange of compliments is such a promoter of good feeling.
H. (more stiffly). I see I have been remiss. But I did not understand.
E. No, it is not yet time—but I have betrayed his confidence inadvertently. To-morrow you must congratulate me. To-morrow I shall tell you that I am engaged. Let me give you another cup.
H. (rising). No, one is enough. Once ought always to be enough! But it seems I am fated to have it twice! I know I am incoherent—but never mind! It’s the tea!
E. (playing with her teaspoon a little nervously). And you have forgiven me?
H. I do not know that I have. But (coldly) whether I have or not is of course only a personal matter.
E. (feebly). Of course.