Ned. A good start. And now, what comes next?
Peter (going left, and meeting Margaret as she reenters). Next? This next, Mr. Applegarth. (Taking her hand.)
Ned (nodding). So. I mind I'd heard. Well, marriage is a proper state. (Jones shows signs of irritation.) And you're a lucky chap to have Miss Shawcross for a bride. I don't say anything against marriage.
Jones (hotly). Well, I do. Now and always. In a free state marriage——
O'Cal. (leaning across towards Jones, Peter and Margaret still standing behind near left door). And have we got our free state yet? Let you wait to be talking of freedom and free-loving men and women till we've had our glorious revolution, and in the dawning of that day——
Jones (leaping up, interrupting). There must be pioneers. Some of us must set the example. (Appealing to Peter and Margaret.) Even at the price of martyrdom, of ostracism by coarse-minded oafs who cannot understand, I call on you, Miss Shawcross, to dispense with the worn-out form of marriage. Be free lovers——
Ned. Comrade Jones, you're a married man yourself
(Jones sits dozen abruptly, silenced), and we're here on business. And after you're married, Peter?
Jones (murmuring disgustedly). Married!
Peter (lightly). Oh, live happily ever afterwards. My horizon doesn't go beyond that.