Vin. (rises and goes up to door R.) Mr. Verity, I'm sorry to have to remind you there are ladies present.
Ste. I can see 'em. That's why I'm letting you down so easy. I'd let it rip if you'd the courage to turn 'em out and meet me man to man.
Mrs. M. (moving towards door). We'll go.
Mont, (r., timidly). I'd rather you didn't, my dear.
Ste. Yes. He'd rather you stayed, and kept a stopper on my tongue.
(Vining opens door and signs to ladies to go.)
Walter (coming to r. of Verity). No, mother. Mr. Verity, don't let us lose our tempers about this. It's too important for petty feelings.
Vin. (indignantly). Petty feelings, indeed!
(The ladies stand by door, irresolute.)
Walter (appealingly). Oh, don't split hairs over words. The town's crying for fresh air and health. The town wants to buy the Polygon.