I sent Claude to town for his mother at ten o’clock this morning. When they arrive, the family will be complete—with the exception Of my brother, Thomas Osborne Portwood, who is in Australia; a deplorable case. [Looking about him.] Arbitration dispenses with legal paraphernalia. A table, writing materials, a few chairs arranged—[his eye falling upon a table]—a table. [He moves the table and stands, disposing, by gesture, of an imaginary audience.] Seated here, I should command the room. [Pushing the settee a little further towards the left.] This thing must be differently placed. Chairs there—and there—— [To Fraser.] Locheen, would this be the better room, I wonder, or the library?
Fraser.
[Who has lapsed into thought, rousing himself.] Eh, for what?
Sir Fletcher Portwood.
For the arbitration? [Fraser impatiently starts to his feet as Mrs. Cloys enters at the window with John.] Oh, Mr. Allingham, if you will give me just a moment or two——
Mrs. Cloys.
[Taking Sir Fletcher’s arm and drawing him aside.] Not now, Fletcher.
Sir Fletcher Portwood.
[Annoyed.] Harriet——!
[Sir Fletcher and Mrs. Cloys stand outside the window, talking. John comes and faces Fraser.