[Falteringly Ottoline returns to the fireplace. She stands there for a few seconds, clutching the mantel-shelf, and then subsides into the chair before the fire. Philip advances to the settee on the right.

Philip.

[To Dunning.] Sorry we have checked your flow of eloquence, Mr. Dunning, even for a moment. [Sitting.] I wouldn't miss a syllable of it. [Airily.] Do, please, continue.

Sir Randle.

[Looking at his watch.] My dear Philip——!

Bertram.

[To Dunning, wearily.] Oh, come to the man—what's his name, Dunning?—Merryweather——!

Dunning.

[Turning several pages of his note-book with his wet thumb.] Merrifield.

Bertram.