frances never heeds this flash of a further meaning between the two men.

frances. And I meant to have gone to see her to-day. Was the end very sudden? Did her husband arrive in time?

wedgecroft. Yes.

frances. They didn't get on . . he'll be frightfully upset.

trebell resists a hideous temptation to laugh.

wedgecroft. Good night, Trebell.

trebell. Good night, Gilbert. Many thanks.

There is enough of a caress in trebell's tone to turn frances towards their friend, a little remorseful for treating him so casually, now as always.

frances. He's always thanking you. You're always doing things for him.

wedgecroft. Good night. [Seeing the tears in her eyes.] Oh, don't grieve.