Mamma. [Lady Macphail, the Dowager, and Lady Euphemia talk together.] Mamma, everybody has congratulated me. Have you nothing to say?

[Lady Twombley places her hand fondly on Imogen’s head.]

Lady Twombley.

[In a sepulchral voice.] Did Phipps dry your head thoroughly last night?

Imogen.

Yes, mamma.

Lady Twombley.

Then all’s well, I suppose. [Sir Julian’s flute is heard. To herself.] The first Bill—the first Bill due next week.

[She sits staring at the fire as Sir Julian enters, playing the flute.]

Imogen.