Maude I was afraid it would be books. (She and Jack examine the watch aside.)
Mrs. De S. We might have a reception.
Miss H. Jennie, you'll be sick! Mark my words, you'll have an attack!
Mrs. De S. But it's so nearly over–
Mr. De S. Ought we to have one? Does everybody?
Miss H. (sarcastically). Does everybody have what? Have an attack?
Mr. De S. (patiently). A reception.
Mrs. De S. It's the thing to do, isn't it, Miss Rantum?
Miss R. (looks up from Maude's MS., which she has been studying). I beg your pardon, Mrs. De Smythe?
Mrs. De S. It's the thing to do–to have a reception, isn't it?