John

[overriding Lucy]

My sister is ill and won't be down at all ... until after you leave.

[Lucy pretends not to hear. Theodore walks away.

Ernest

[aroused, but calm]

I don't believe you quite understand. It is a matter of indifference to me whether we have a talk or not. Entirely out of courtesy to you that I suggest it.

John

Don't inconvenience yourself on my account.

Ernest