Peter. They sent me to find Miss Chester—they're going to cut the bridesmaid's cake, and if you two really are spoony, Miss Chester, you'd better not miss it—you might get the ring!
[They laugh as Peter takes out a bottle from which he takes a round, black tablet which he puts in his mouth.
Ruth. [Also rising.] I'd better go.
[Peter is making frantic efforts to swallow the tablet.
Geoffrey. [Noticing him.] What's the matter with you?
Peter. O dear! I've eaten so many ices and fancy cakes, I've got awful indigestion, and I'm trying to swallow a charcoal tablet.
Ruth. Come with me and get a glass of water.
Peter. No, it's very bad to drink water with your meals; but I'll get a piece of bridesmaid's cake—that'll push it down!
[Peter and Ruth go out through the double doors.
[The moment they are out of the room, Maggie comes from behind the curtain and goes straight up to Geoffrey. He looks astonished and frightened.