Oh, you know how your mother laughs at one. It doesn't hurt. "Dear boy," she said, in the kindest way, "it's too soon to talk of such things to Ellen. You must give her time to grow up." And I gave her my word I would; and you see I've kept it.
Ellen.
And if mother should----
Beata enters.
Beata.
Ellen, dear, go to Miss Mansborough. It's time for your reading. Norbert will come in a moment.
Ellen.
Yes, mother. (Goes out.)
Beata (who has been watching them closely).
By the way, Norbert--what about that promise you made me?