Yes, and Alice Cortelyon has arrived at the conclusion that it would have been far kinder had she called on Mrs. Tanqueray long ago. She's going abroad for Easter before settling down in London for the season, and I believe she has come over this morning to ask for Ellean's companionship.
Aubrey.
Oh, I see! [Frowning.] Quite a friendly little conspiracy, my dear Cayley!
Drummle.
Conspiracy! Not at all, I assure you. [Laughing.] Ha, ha!
Ellean enters from the hall with Mrs. Cortelyon,a handsome, good humoured, spirited woman of about forty-five.
Ellean.
Papa——
Mrs. Cortelyon.
[To Aubrey, shaking hands with him heartily.] Well, Aubrey, how are you? I've just been telling this great girl of yours that I knew her when she was a sad-faced, pale baby. How is Mrs. Tanqueray? I have been a bad neighbour, and I'm here to beg forgiveness. Is she indoors?