Pringle.
[By fireplace, to himself, with the deepest disgust.] First my room, and then my guests!
Mr. Wackerbath.
[Turning to Mrs. Futvoye, as the Professor joins Sylvia.] I want to introduce a friend of ours—very rising young fellow——[He looks round for Horace, and discovers him by the flower stand.] Ah, there he is—Mr. Ventimore. [Horace pulls himself together and comes forward, not in the least knowing what reception to expect.] Mr. Ventimore, Mrs. Anthony Futvoye.
[Horace bows in considerable anxiety.
Mrs. Futvoye.
Why, my dear Mr. Wackerbath, we know one another quite well already! [To Horace, laughing.] Don't we, Horace?
[Horace takes her hand with obvious relief.
Sylvia.
[Coming down smiling, between Mr. Wackerbath and Horace.] How are you, Horace?