Mrs. Hunter. Will you have some tea? The children were hungry.
Mason. No, thank you. [To Blanche.] Isn't your husband here?
[Jordan, at a signal from Mrs. Hunter, removes the tea things.
Blanche. No, he left us at the door when we came back.
Mason. Didn't he get a letter from me this morning asking him to meet me here?
Blanche. Oh, yes, he did mention a letter at breakfast, but my thoughts were away. He has been very much worried lately over his affairs; he doesn't confide in me, but I see it. I wish you could advise him, Mr. Mason.
Mason. I cannot advise your husband if he won't ask my advice. I don't think we'll wait for Mr. Sterling.
[Gives chair to Mrs. Hunter.
Mrs. Hunter. I suppose you've come about all the horrid business. Why not just tell us how much our income is, and let all the details go. I really think the details are more than I can bear to-day.
Mason. That can be certainly as you wish; but I felt—as your business adviser—and besides I promised my old friend, your husband—it was my duty to let you know how matters stand with the least possible delay.