Not too late yet. Julia and I had discussions for a quarter of a century.

Helen

Don't think I had any hand in this. [Laughs.] I was going to warn you, but now—it is unnecessary now.

Ernest

Warn me? What do you mean?

Helen

Can't you see? It was all a plot! [Lucy draws near noiselessly.] A plot to entrap you in marriage! They had about given me up as a bad job. You were my last hope. They were going to throw me at your head. [Louder but without turning.] Weren't you, Lucy dear?

Lucy

[caught listening, turns abruptly to the others]

These New Women are utterly shameless.