LILY. What do you want to do?

CHARLEY. I—I want to go away. [Pause.]

LILY. And leave me?

CHARLEY. [suddenly remembering.] Oh—er—

LILY. It’s just that horrid Mr. Tennant—

CHARLEY. It’s nothing to do with him—at least. . . .

LILY. I said it was. He wants you to go with him—and you want to go—you’re tired of me—

CHARLEY. [going up to her and trying to speak gently but being very irritated—his voice is sharp.] Oh, don’t cry . . . you don’t understand. Look, Lil, supposing I went and you came out afterwards.

LILY. You want to go without me.

CHARLEY. I couldn’t take you, dear, but I would soon send for you; it wouldn’t be long.