Undershell (to himself). She admires me all the more for it. But I knew she would take the right view! (Aloud, with pathos.) I was only compelled by absolute starvation. I had had an unusually light lunch, and I was so hungry!
Lady Maisie (after a pause). That explains it, of course.... I hope they gave you a good supper!
Undershell. Excellent, thank you. Indeed, I was astonished at the variety and even luxury of the table. There was a pyramid of quails——
Lady Maisie. I am pleased to hear it. But I thought there was something you were going to explain.
Undershell. I have been endeavouring to explain to the best of my ability that if I have undesignedly been the cause of—er—a temporary diversion in the state of Miss Phillipson's affections, no one could regret more deeply than I that the—er—ordinary amenities of the supper-table should have been mistaken for——
Lady Maisie (horrified). Oh, stop, Mr. Blair, please stop! I don't want to hear any more. I see now. It was you who——
Undershell. Of course it was I. Surely the girl herself has been telling you so just now!
Lady Maisie. You really thought that possible, too? She simply came with a message from my mother.
Undershell (slightly disconcerted). Oh! If I had known it was merely that. However, I am sure I need not ask you to treat my—my communication in the strictest confidence, Lady Maisie.
Lady Maisie. Indeed, that is perfectly unnecessary, Mr. Blair.