[She goes out by the dining-room door.
Sir Fletcher Portwood.
[To Fraser.] Of course, my sister Harriet throws cold water upon my proposal——
Fraser.
Proposal——?
Sir Fletcher Portwood.
Arbitration. [Fraser walks away and eyes the upper door anxiously and expectantly.] But when did Harriet fail to throw cold water? I shall sound Allingham and get his views. After all, Harriet is not essential; Harriet is not——
[While speaking he goes to the table, takes up the inkstand and blotting-book and carries them to the other table.
Fraser.
[To Sir Fletcher.] Sir Fletcher, Theophila understands that she is to see me here alone——