BERTLEY. [A little awkward in the presence of FERRAND—to the
MEGANS.] This begins a new chapter. We won't improve the occasion.
No need.
[MEGAN, turning towards his wife, makes her a gesture as if to
say: "Here! let's get out of this!">[
BENTLEY. Yes, yes, you'll like to get home at once—I know. [He holds up his hand mechanically.]
TIMSON. I forbids the banns.
BERTLEY, [Startled.] Gracious!
TIMSON. [Extremely unsteady.] Just cause and impejiment. There 'e stands. [He points to FERRAND.] The crimson foreigner! The mockin' jay!
WELLWYN. Timson!
TIMSON. You're a gen'leman—I'm aweer o' that but I must speak the truth—[he waves his hand] an' shame the devil!
BERTLEY. Is this the rum—?
TIMSON. [Struck by the word.] I'm a teetotaler.