[In some distress.] Oh, dear! I am so sorry. I'm afraid I'm to blame. I asked the manager for this room—he told me it was engaged, but he would arrange for you to have the "Patience" Room instead.
Pringle.
I can only assure you that this is the first I've heard of it, or else——
Mrs. Wackerbath.
[Rising.] I quite thought it would be explained to you, and I do so hope the change hasn't put you to any great inconvenience?
Pringle.
[Sourly.] I'm afraid, Mrs. Wackerbath, it has put my guests to considerable inconvenience, as they have presumably been shown into the "Patience" Room, and been waiting there for nearly half an hour—if they haven't already left! So—[making a movement towards the arch]—if you will kindly permit me——
Horace.
[Coming down, and intercepting him; in an under>tone.] You won't find them there, Pringle. They haven't come. They won't come now, I assure you.
Professor's Voice.