Tarver.

[To Salome, trembling with excitement.] My tones are like a beautiful bell this evening. I’m so glad, for all our sakes. [As he takes the leather music roll from Blore.] Thank you, that’s it.

Salome.

What will you begin with?

Tarver.

“Come into the garden, Maud.” I’ve begun with “Corne into the garden, Maud” for years and years. [He opens the music roll—it is empty.] Oh! Miss Jedd, I’ve forgotten my music!

Salome and Sheba.

Oh! Major Tarver!

[Tarver with a groan of despair sinks on to the settee.

Sheba.