Sydney. But with Father—wasn’t it shell-shock?
Miss Fairfield. It was brought on by shell-shock.
Sydney. D’you mean that in our family there’s insanity?
Miss Fairfield. [Fidgeting] That’s not the way to talk. But we’re nervy, all of us, we’re nervy. Your poor father would have been no worse than the rest if it hadn’t been for the war.
Sydney. [Slowly] What do you mean, “nervy”?
Miss Fairfield. [With a sidelong glance] I mean the way you’re taking this.
Sydney. [Sharply] How am I taking it?
Miss Fairfield. [Irritated] Well, look at you now.
Sydney. [Coldly] I’m perfectly under control.
Miss Fairfield. That’s it. It’s not natural.