(Belson appears in the doorway. After a pause, Ometsu lifting up her face to kiss Jack’s cheek, sees him over Jack’s shoulder. She gives a little scream and breaks away. Jack turns in his seat and looks in the direction of Belson. For a moment he stares at him, and then rises slowly, gripping the rail of his chair. Ometsu sidles up and lays a hand on his arm, and looks up at his face with apprehension. The two men face each other for several seconds without speaking.)
Belson (in a hard voice). Mr. Maitland! (Jack makes no reply, and Belson comes half way towards them.)
Jack (hoarsely). What do you want—sir?
Belson (sternly). I want you. (Ometsu clutches at Jack’s arm.)
Jack. I’m not going back! I’ve sent in my resignation. I’m going to stay here—with my wife.
Belson. Then you’re already married?
Jack. No, but we shall be—on Thursday.
Belson. Maitland, the Captain’s orders are that you come back with me to the ship.
Jack. I’m sorry, sir, but I can’t do it. I’ve made up my mind to leave the Navy. (Suddenly.) But how did you know I was here? How could you know? (Sees Simpson standing just inside the door with a hang-dog look.) (Pointing at him.) By heaven, a traitor! (Shakes off Ometsu and strides towards Simpson, but Belson gets between them.)
Belson. Maitland, don’t forget that you are still a naval officer!