JOHN. I’m just twenty-one.
JAMES. I read in a book that about four years’ difference in the ages is the ideal thing. [As usual he is disregarded.]
DAVID. Well, Mr. Shand?
JOHN [where is his mother?]. I’m willing if she’s willing.
DAVID. Maggie?
MAGGIE. There can be no ‘if’ about it. It must be an offer.
JOHN. A Shand give a Wylie such a chance to humiliate him? Never.
MAGGIE. Then all is off.
DAVID. Come, come, Mr. Shand, it’s just a form.
JOHN [reluctantly]. Miss Maggie, will you?