ROBERT.
[Pulling round a chair.] Here you are. You are lucky to find me in. Why didn’t you tell me today? You were always a devil for surprises. I suppose my evocation of the past was too much for your wild blood. See how artistic I have become. [He points to the walls.] The piano is an addition since your time. I was just strumming out Wagner when you came. Killing time. You see I am ready for the fray. [Laughs.] I was just wondering how you and the vicechancellor were getting on together. [With exaggerated alarm.] But are you going in that suit? O well, it doesn’t make much odds, I suppose. But how goes the time? [He takes out his watch.] Twenty past eight already, I declare!
RICHARD.
Have you an appointment?
ROBERT.
[Laughs nervously.] Suspicious to the last!
RICHARD.
Then I may sit down?
ROBERT.
Of course, of course. [They both sit down.] For a few minutes, anyhow. Then we can both go on together. We are not bound for time. Between eight and nine, he said, didn’t he? What time is it, I wonder? [Is about to look again at his watch; then stops.] Twenty past eight, yes.
RICHARD.
[Wearily, sadly.] Your appointment also was for the same hour. Here.
ROBERT.
What appointment?
RICHARD.
With Bertha.
ROBERT.
[Stares at him.] Are you mad?
RICHARD.
Are you?