JACK. Really.
(Barnes pauses, then.)
BARNES. I will inform Mr. Whitworth that you are here.
(Exit Barnes. Jack watches him close door, then goes to bookcase, examines books, takes one out and begins to read studiously. Florence motions Elsie to remain and comes forward.)
FLORENCE. Good-morning, Mr. Metherell.
JACK (closing book quietly). Good morning, Miss Florence. Florence. Are you much of a reader?
JACK. I'm striving to improve my mind.
FLORENCE (taking the book). Good gracious, you've got hold of Plato.
JACK. Yes. I have read him in the Everyman Edition, but I see this is a different translation by a Mr. Jowett.
FLORENCE. How learned you must be.