Miss Sillerton. Not really!

Blanche. No, no, of course not!

[She rings bell.

Mrs. Hunter. But I am! And I thought here at my daughter's table, among my own friends (I was allowed to name the guests to-night), I could count on good wishes and congratulations.

[There is a dead silence.

[The musicians, a band of Neapolitan players, enter and take their places in a recess at Left.

Blanche. [To the musicians.] You may play. [To Jordan, who has brought in the Neapolitans.] We are ready, Jordan.

[Jordan goes out at back.

[Ruth goes to Blanche.

[The guitars and mandolins begin a popular song.