MRS. CULVER ( with admiring enthusiasm ). You've behaved splendidly.
CULVER. Yes, that's what you always say when you've won and I—haven't. ( She kisses him again .)
Enter the Parlourmaid, back .
PARLOURMAID. Miss Starkey is still waiting, sir.
CULVER. Inexorable creature! I won't—I will not—( suddenly remembering that he has nothing to fear from Miss Starkey; gaily ). Yes, I'll see her. She must lunch with us. May she lunch with us, Hermione?
MRS. CULVER ( submissively ). Why, Arthur, of course! ( To Parlourmaid.) Miss Starkey can have Master John's place. Some lunch must be kept warm for Master John. ( As the Parlourmaid is leaving .) One moment—bring up some champagne, please.
PARLOURMAID. Yes, Madam.
( Exit Parlourmaid.)
CULVER. Come along, I'm hungry. ( Leading her towards the door. Then stopping .) I say.... Oh well, never mind.
MRS. CULVER. But what?