emily. [scared.] I suppose so, Booth, thank you.
booth. I think the boy had better run away and play . . [he checks himself on the word.] Well, take a book and keep quiet; d'ye hear me, Christopher?
christopher, who looks incapable of a sound, gazes at his father with round eyes. emily whispers "Library" to him and adds a kiss in acknowledgement of his good behaviour. After a moment he slips out, thankfully.
edward. How's Ethel, Denis?
tregoning. A little smashed, of course, but no harm done.
alice maitland comes in, brisk and businesslike; a little impatient of this universal cloud of mourning.
alice. Edward, Honor has gone to her room. I want to take her some food and make her eat it. She's very upset.
edward. Make her drink a glass of wine, and say it is necessary she should come down here. And d'you mind not coming back yourself, Alice?
alice. [her eyebrows up.] Certainly, if you wish.
booth. [overhearing.] What's this? What's this?