BENNET. I will see, while I am here, that your lordship’s room is in order.
VERNON. Why, where’s Robert, then?
BENNET. He has gone into town to do some shopping. We did not expect your lordship much before nine. There may be one or two things to see to. [He goes into his lordship’s apartments, closing the door behind him.]
FANNY. Vernon, where am I?
VERNON. At home, dear.
FANNY. Yes, but where?
VERNON. At Bantock Hall, Rutlandshire. [Fanny sits down on the settee—drops down rather.] You’re not angry with me? You know how the world always talks in these cases. I wanted to be able to prove to them all that you married me for myself. Not because I was Lord Bantock. Can you forgive me?
FANNY [she still seems in a dream]. Yes—of course. You didn’t—you wouldn’t—[She suddenly springs up.] Vernon, you do love me? [She flings her arms round his neck.]
VERNON. Dear!
FANNY. You will never be ashamed of me?