Don't imagine that I am apologizing for him, please, in the slightest degree; but no, he hasn't been successful up to the present, in the usual acceptation of the term.

Lady Filson.

[Searching for her handkerchief.] Where—where have you——?

Ottoline.

I met him yesterday at Robbie Roope's, at lunch. [Lady Filson finds her handkerchief and applies it to her eyes.] Oh, there's no need to cry, mother dear. For mercy's sake——!

Lady Filson.

Oh, Otto! [Rising and crossing to the settee on the right, whimpering.] Oh, Randle! [To Bertram, who comes to her.] Oh, my boy!

Sir Randle.

[Gazing blinkingly at the ceiling as Lady Filson sinks upon the settee.] Incredible! Incredible!

Bertram.