Why, do you think I would risk an anticlimax? [In an intense whisper.] To-night! [Louder.] To-night? [He hesitates a little longer—then bows in assent, stiffly and coldly. She gives an ardent sigh.] Ah—! [He retreats a step or two. She draws herself up with dignity.] To-night then—
[She turns from him and glides away through the trees. He stands for a moment, a frown upon his face, in thought.
Quex.
[Suddenly, moving in the direction she has taken.] No, no! Duchess—! [A gong sounds in the distance, he pauses, looking at his watch, angrily.] Ptshah! [He turns up the stage and discovers Sophy, who is now standing behind the hedge.] Hallo! [Sophy advances, laughing rather foolishly.] What are you doing here?
Sophy.
Looking for my rings. I took them off before I began manicuring you.
Quex.
[Pointing to the hedge.] You didn't drop them there, did you?
Sophy.
No, I left them on the table.