PERCY. Well, you’re two dutifully loving young women, I must say.

MAGGIE. You forget—we’re used to it. [PERCY goes out.] Come, Sybil, and take off your things.

Exeunt SYBIL and MAGGIE.

Enter WALTER FOSTER, a man of about 35, prosperous looking, rather stout of build, and fair. CHARLEY also enters, and PERCY.

FOSTER. [looking round for MAGGIE.] Good afternoon. [Shakes hands with MRS. M. and MASSEY.]

MRS. M. She’s gone up with Sybil, Walter.

FOSTER. Oh! I was afraid she was out, perhaps.

MASSEY. Well, Charles, you’re not looking spry.

CHARLEY. I’m a bit seedy—nothing much.

MASSEY. And when’s that madman lodger of yours going, eh?