Harry. How are you?
Pilcher. Good morning, Mrs. Sturgess.
Renie. Good morning.
[At Pilcher's entrance she has hidden her French novel behind her in the chair. In shaking hands with Pilcher it drops on to the floor and Lucas's letter drops out. Lucas goes to pick it up, Mr. Pilcher is before him, picks up the novel and letter and hands them to Renie. In taking them she shows some confusion.
Pilcher. [Genially.] Improving the New Year by getting a thorough knowledge of Parisian life and manners, I see.
Renie. [Confused.] No!—I had begun the book a week ago and so I thought—a—I'd better finish it.
Lucas. Good morning, Mr. Pilcher.
Pilcher. [Shaking hands.] Good morning.
Lucas. Rattling good sermon you gave us last night.
Pilcher. I'm glad you thought it worth coming so far to hear.