Fletcher. [Whose eyes never quite look into Marion's, loosening the embrace.] You will marry me?
Marion. Yes. [Kisses him, then quickly moves down right.
Fletcher. [Following her. Not looking at her.] People say I'm a blackguard!
Marion. People say a great many things that aren't true. What can a man do with all the world against him! "People" can force him into being as bad as they say he is.
Fletcher. Then you won't believe them.
Marion. No, not if you deny what they say. [He holds out his hand; she takes it. At this moment, Mrs. Lorrimer and Ethel appear in ball-room, ostentatiously counting the chairs and making small calculation about the cotillion, but really watching slyly Marion and Fletcher. Marion sees it and speaks to Fletcher quickly under her breath.] Don't move! Don't drop my hand, but shake it as if we'd been making a bet, and follow my lead! [Aloud.] It's settled then! You take my bet?
Fletcher. [Shaking her hand and then dropping it casually. A box of cigars, against a box of gloves! [Sotto voce.] What is it?
Marion [Sotto voce.] Mrs. Lorrimer in the next room watching us. [Speaks in low voce satirically to Fletcher as if she were speaking to Mrs. Lorrimer.] Oh, no, Emily! I am going to marry Mr. Fletcher, but I intend to be the one to announce that fact, and not you. [Mrs. Lorrimer and Ethel turn. They see Marion and Fletcher and pretend surprise; they remain in the ball-room.]
Mrs. Lorrimer. [With trumpet.] Oh! Marion! are you here?
Marion. Ahem! [With a quick, amused side glance to Fletcher.] We've been watching you for some time; what was the matter with the chairs?