Colonel.

Not beyond the cigarette, I fancy.

[He strolls to the glass door, lights his cigar, and steps out. For a few moments he is still seen, then he wanders away.

Gunning.

Nice old chap, your father-in-law.

Parbury.

Isn’t he? I’m quite fond of him. [Pause. They smoke in silence, Parbury standing at mantelpiece.] What are you thinking of?

Gunning.

I’m not thinking. I’m digesting. I had an excellent dinner.

Enter Evans with coffee, &c. Gunning takes coffee.