[In the same to her.] So did I! But I think I'm out of the cart this time.

[He goes up towards the left, talking to her.

Pringle.

[Crossing to the Professor; in an undertone.] So glad you decided to stay, Professor. I was really half afraid you'd go—as a protest against all this ostentation.

[Mrs. Futvoye is admiring the workmanship of the hangings.

Professor Futvoye.

[In an undertone to Pringle.] I should have done so, Pringle, I should have done so—but for the inconvenience of dining elsewhere at this hour. [Aloud, to Horace.] Ventimore! [Pringle joins Mrs. Futvoye.] I don't know if you are getting hungry,—but I own I am. Will it be long before they announce dinner?

Horace.

[Turning, with a start.] Dinner? Oh, I hope not—I mean, I think not.

Professor Futvoye.