Lady Duckle meant Evelyn to understand that it would not be well to risk anything that might bring about a meeting between Sir Owen and Mr. Innes. But she did not dare to be more explicit. Owen had forbidden any discussion of his relations with Evelyn.
"Of course it would be nice for you to see your father. But you should, I think, go to him; surely that is the proper course."
"We've written to each other from time to time, but not lately—not since we went to Greece.... I've neglected my correspondence."
Tears rose to Evelyn's eyes, and Lady Duckle was sorely tempted to lead her into confidences. But Owen's counsels prevailed; she dissembled, saying that she knew how Evelyn loved her father, and how nice it would be for her to see him again after such a long absence.
"I dare say he'll forgive me, but there'll be reproaches. I don't think there's anyone who hates a scene more than I do."
"I haven't lived with you five years without having found out that. But in avoiding a disagreeable scene we are often preparing one more disagreeable."
"That is true.... I think I'll go to Dulwich."
"Shall you have time?... You're not in the first act."
"Dulwich is not six miles from here. We can drive there easily in three-quarters of an hour. And three-quarters of an hour to get back. They won't begin to rehearse the second act before one. It is a little after ten now."
"Then good-bye."