LADY (without bitterness). And you've a wife who can't even help you.
DOCTOR (kindly). You mustn't say that, if I don't think so.
LADY (turning towards the verandah). Here he is!
(The STRANGER comes in through the verandah, dressed in a way that makes him look younger than before. He has an air of forced candour. He seems to recognise the doctor, and shrinks back, but recovers himself.)
DOCTOR. You're very welcome.
STRANGER. It's kind of you.
DOCTOR. You bring good weather with you. And we need it; for it's rained for six weeks.
STRANGER. Not for seven? It usually rains for seven if it rains on St. Swithin's. But that's later on—how foolish of me!
DOCTOR. As you're used to town life I'm afraid you'll find the country dull.
STRANGER. Oh no. I'm no more at home there than here. Excuse me asking, but haven't we met before—when we were boys?