The Big Drum: A Comedy in Four Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

[Crossing to the writing-table.] I'll finish answering my letters; I sha'n't have a moment later on. [Gathering up his correspondence.] You won't disturb me; I'll polish 'em off in another room. [To Ottoline.] Are you goin' to Lady Paulton's by-and-by, by any chance?

Ottoline.

[Again at the fireplace, her back to Roope and Philip.] And Mrs. Jack Cathcart's—and Mrs. Le Roy's——

Roope.

You shall take me to Lowndes Square, if you will. [Recrossing.] Sha'n't be more than ten minutes. [At the door.] Ten minutes, dear excellent friends. A quarter-of-an-hour at the outside.

[He vanishes, closing the door. There is a pause, and then Philip and Ottoline turn to one another and he goes to her.

Ottoline.

[Her hands in his, breathlessly.] You are glad to see me, then! [Laughing shyly.] Ha, ha! You are glad!

Philip.

[Tenderly.] Yes.