Theophila.
Oh, don’t——!
Mrs. Emptage.
[In a whisper.] Mind you see that we visit you constantly in London and St Olpherts!
Theophila.
Yes, yes. [As she is walking away, she sees John—who has been standing silently behind the settee, his back turned to those in the room—and she says to the others.] One moment. [She comes down, looking at John.] Mr. Allingham. [He approaches her slowly. After a pause she says in a low voice.] Oh, Jack, how could you? [He bows his head, making no reply.] Well—for auld lang-syne——[She holds out her hand; he takes it, but releases it quickly. She turns to go, then pauses.] Where’s your wife? [He looks towards the dining-room door. She hesitates for a moment, then, goes out quickly by that door.]
Mrs. Cloys.
[Looking round.] Theophila—Theophila——
John.
[Watching the door.] She will be here in a moment; she is with my wife.