Welburn. No, no, you can't. I should be sure to remember my wife if I had one. Don't tell me about it—it will excite me.
Mary. Mother, he really must be kept quiet.
Mrs Maitland. Oh, dear, it's all so mysterious and disquieting, Mary. I shall go round to the Rectory and tell the Canon about it. He is so wise.
Mary [anxious to get her away]. Yes, do, mamma. I'm sure that will be the best thing.
Mrs Maitland [going out]. I shall be back in a minute. I shan't put on my hat. I'll just take my parasol to look respectable.
Welburn. Where is she going?
Mary. To the Rectory. It is just across the green.
Welburn. That sounds very soothing—a Rectory across the green.
Mary. Yes. Now don't talk any more; try to be quite quiet. Are you comfortable?
Welburn. Immensely.