In the Yew Walk.
Lady Maisie (to herself, as she watches Undershell approaching). How badly he walks, and what does he mean by smiling at me like that? (Aloud, coldly.) I am sorry, Mr. Blair, but I must leave you to finish your stroll alone; my maid has just told me——
Undershell (vehemently). Lady Maisie, I ask you, in common fairness, not to judge me until you have heard my version. You will not allow the fact that I travelled down here in the same compartment with your maid, Phillipson——
Lady Maisie (wide-eyed). The same! But we came by that train. I thought you missed it?
Undershell. I—I was not so fortunate. It is rather a long and complicated story, but——
Lady Maisie. I'm afraid I really can't listen to you now, Mr. Blair, after what I have heard from Phillipson——
Undershell. I implore you not to go without hearing both sides. Sit down again—if only for a minute. I feel confident that I can explain everything satisfactorily.
Lady Maisie (sitting down). I can't imagine what there is to explain—and really I ought, if Phillipson——
Undershell. You know what maids are, Lady Maisie. They embroider. Unintentionally, I dare say, but still, they do embroider.
Lady Maisie (puzzled). She is very clever at mending lace, I know, though what that has to do with it——