Ometsu (coming to him). Simpson, what do you mean?
Simpson (with supreme effort). Well, miss, I mean Once a Sailor always a Sailor! (He draws back as if he had explained everything.)
Ometsu. Oh, is that all?
Simpson. All? Why, miss, it’s everything. Mr. Maitland can never help being a sailor now.
Ometsu (laughs with relief). You funny man, Simpson. You make such a lot out of nothing. Of course Mr. Maitland’s a sailor. Isn’t he going to take me—and you—for a long cruise among the South Sea Islands? We shall be perfectly happy down there, Simpson. You will get rid of all your troubles then.
Simpson (groans, looks at her and shakes his head). I don’t think he ought to leave the Navy, miss. Think what——
Ometsu (walks away towards piano). Simpson! Mr. Maitland has told you that you are not to speak to me about this. He has quite made up his mind, and you have promised to leave the service too and come with us. Surely Mr. Maitland has offered you sufficient——
Simpson. Yes, miss, yes, but it isn’t that. It isn’t my pension I’m thinking about ... but I’d like to finish my time with him.
Ometsu. Oh, Simpson, don’t be silly.... You will finish it with him. He’s going to do ever so much more for you than your Navy can. And didn’t he say you should come to our wedding and be his best man and sign the register? And when we go away you will be in charge of everything. Why, you will be quite a big man; and Jack—Mr. Maitland, says we may go pearl-fishing, and you will make your fortune then.... (Simpson still looks dully at her.) Oh, you are grumpy this morning. I don’t like you a bit. I wish I hadn’t given you the brandy now. (Shakes an accusing finger at him.) I think you’ve been drinking. (She goes to the piano and plays a snatch of Mandalay. Almost immediately Maitland’s voice joins in the song. As he reaches the doorway she gives a little scream of delight, jumps off the stool and runs to meet him. He catches her in his arms. Simpson quickly leaves by the door on left.)
Jack. Sweetheart!