Al. We are.
Mel. Why then intrusive?
Al. There are seasons when friendship must yield its pretensions to a superior claim.
Mel. Perhaps I do not rightly comprehend the force of that remark.
Al. Was Beauman here, my position might be demonstrated.
Mel. I think I understand you.
Al. And acknowledge my observation to be just?
Mel. (hesitating.) Yes—I believe I must.
Al. And appropriate?
Melissa was silent.