Mrs. V. But, Archibald, to address a split infinitive to a baronet!
Vin. I stand corrected. Thanks, Cecilia.
Mont. I don't quite see—————
Vin. (moving him to write). It was resolved respectfully to address——
Mont, (correcting and reading). To address a letter to you on the subject of your rumoured intention to sell the Polygon.
Vin. Correct, I think? (Approval from the settee.)
Mont. (proceeding). It is our hope that should this information be correct, bracket, which we hesitate to believe, bracket, you will reconsider your decision to give over to the hands of the jerry builder the only residences in Carrington habitable by persons of refinement.
Vin. Excellent. (Approval from settee. Vining crosses l. to above Montgomery and takes letter; patronisingly.) You write a clerkly hand, Monty. (Picks up pen.) I'll sign as the oldest resident present.
(Montgomery swallows a protest, remaining seated, Vining signs, bending over.)
What a pity Sir Charles is abroad. We shall be kept waiting for his reply.