Sydney. [Turning] Oh, Bassett, isn’t it rather early for tea? Lunch was so late.
Bassett. [Desisting] Oh, very well, miss.
Miss Fairfield. Now, Sydney! Always trying to upset things! I’m more than ready for my tea. Bring it in at once, Bassett.
Bassett. Very well, ma’am!
Sydney. Auntie, I know Mother won’t want to be disturbed.
Miss Fairfield. It’s high time she was. Talk! Talk! No consideration. She’ll tire Hilary out. [She goes towards the drawing-room.]
Sydney. [Worried] Auntie, I think—
Miss Fairfield. Then you shouldn’t! [She goes out.]
Bassett. Shall I bring in tea, Miss Sydney?
Sydney. [With a twinkle] I think we’ll wait half an hour.