[He looks at the letters again, then lays them aside on the table.

Aubrey.

[Gently.] Paula, dear, it doesn't matter.

Paula.

[After a short pause.] Why—why do you take it like this?

Aubrey.

What did you expect?

Paula.

Oh, but I suppose silent reproaches are really the severest. And then, naturally, you are itching to open your letters.

[She crosses the room as if to go.