booth. Poor Ethel!

They speak as one speaks of the dead, and so the wrangling stops. Then edward interposes quietly.

edward. Yes, Hugh, if we'd been poor . .

hugh. I haven't spoken of your fate, Edward. That's too shameful.

edward. . . We should at least have learnt how to spend money.

booth. [pathetically.] Really, Edward, need you attack me?

hugh. Well . . you're so proud of representing the family!

booth. And may I ask what we're discussing now?

beatrice. Yes, Edward. I knew how to get the greatest possible happiness out of a five pound note years before I had one.

edward. The first man who saved a sovereign has made a prisoner of me.