Mrs. Emptage.

Did they cheer you much, darling? That’s what your uncle means.

Theophila.

Cheer me, mother——?

[Fraser rises abruptly, placing his cup, with a clatter, on the piano.

Fraser.

I—I feel as Theophila does. I must dip my face into cold water. The atmosphere of that place stifles one even now. Do excuse me.

[He goes out; all, except Theophila, look after him, surprised.

Theophila.

Mother dear—Uncle Fletcher—you seem to have a wrong impression——