All I have to say is that the highest estimation Admiral Rankling can form of me will not do justice to my devotion to my wife.

PEGGY.

[Sotto voce.] Oh, beautiful!

REGINALD.

[Fiercely.] And I should like to know the individual, old or young, who would take my wife from me!

MALLORY.

[To himself ] Many a husband would like to know that person.

REGINALD.

In conclusion—as for Admiral Rankling's offer of a paternal friendship, I trust he will remember that offer if ever we should have occasion to remind him of it. [Looking at his watch.] And now I regret to say—[ The girls rise, the men follow. ]

PEGGY.