[Lady Gairloch and her daughter look at one another, horrified. They come forward. Merton starts on seeing them, and stands rooted to the ground. He recovers himself and speaks in his usual tones].
Merton. Lady Gairloch! I didn't know you were here. I ought to have been told. I am so sorry to have kept you waiting. [He shakes hands with her, and then with Betty]. Won't you sit down?
Lady Gairloch. Oh, thank you, we really have hardly a moment [they remain standing, embarrassed]. We came in on our way to King's Cross to tell you about the cross-country journey to Gairloch. Your housekeeper said you were speaking to somebody and that you would be here directly. So I told her not to disturb you. [A pause].
Merton. I'm afraid you must have heard that very unpleasant scene I had with one of my maids.
Lady Gairloch [not quite knowing what to say]. We couldn't help hearing.
Merton. She's a hysterical sort of girl.
Lady Gairloch. Oh, is she?
Merton [attempting to speak lightly]. It's rather difficult sometimes for a bachelor to deal with his household.
[Looks smiling at Lady Gairloch, who also smiles, but looks uncomfortable. He is standing with his back to the door. It opens slowly while he is speaking and Kirstin stands in the doorway. Dr Merton sees Lady Gairloch looking at the door. He turns round and sees Kirstin. She comes forward a step and looks at Merton with an appealing smile].
Merton. Oh, Kirstin—[then he turns to Lady Gairloch]—This is Miss Thwaite who came last night. Kirstin, I am sorry, I'm very much engaged just now, would you mind going to your room again till I call you? [Goes and opens the door. Kirstin goes out silently, looking at him as she goes. He comes back into the room—an embarrassed silence]