Jack (turning to Ometsu). Well, little woman, what shall we do to-day? Something beautiful, something delightful, wonderful—because—you can’t have another seventeenth birthday. Shall we go to the lake and have a little picnic all by our two selves? (She smiles and nods delightedly.) And we’ll draw up plans for the wedding. (Turns to Simpson, who is waiting on them.) You know, Simpson, I’d half made up my mind to let you come and be a witness at the wedding, but I feel very angry with you just now. I don’t think you ought to be near her at present. I think you’d better keep out of the way until after the wedding. (Turns to Ometsu.) Would you like me to keep him out of sight, darling?
Ometsu. Oh, no, dear. I’m sure he didn’t mean to make me unhappy.
Jack. Yes, I know, sweetheart, but he mustn’t make these mistakes. Well, I’ll think about it. Make up a nice tiffin for us Simpson. Everything of the best. Put in a small bottle of champagne for me. (Pause.) D’ye hear, Simpson?
Simpson (who is standing behind, chokingly). Yes, sir.
Jack. Shall I drive Darling in the trap? We can take Simpson with us, and he can bring it back and then fetch us about four or five, eh, sweetheart?
Ometsu (smiles and nods). Lovely!
Jack (still going on with his breakfast). Did you hear that, Simpson? Go out and tell the boy to have the trap ready by—— (Looks at his watch, and then turns to Ometsu.) Shall we say eleven o’clock, sweetheart? It’s ten now.
Ometsu. Yes, dear, that will do beautifully.
Jack. Eleven o’clock, Simpson. Tell him to be here at eleven; and I shall want you to come with us and bring the trap back. (Pause; Simpson shows signs of distress.) Simpson, did you hear what I said? (Turns round and sees Simpson’s face.) What’s the matter, man? Aren’t you well?
Simpson (licks his lips). Well, sir— (swallows) the fact is, sir, I don’t feel up to much this morning, sir. (Wipes his face.)