[Thomas does not wait for further orders.

Philip. Sir, you are—impudent—!

Sir Wilfrid. [Interrupting.] Ah, you put it all in a nutshell, don't you?

Philip. To show your face here, after practically eloping with my wife!

Sir Wilfrid. [Affecting ignorance.] When were you married?

Philip. We are as good as married.

Sir Wilfrid. Oh, pooh, pooh! You can't tell me that grace before soup is as good as a dinner! [He takes out his cigar-case and, in the absence of a match, enjoys a smokeless smoke.

Philip. Sir—I—demand—

Sir Wilfrid. [Calmly carrying the situation.] Mrs. Karslake is not married. That's why I'm here. I am here for the same purpose you are; to ask Mrs. Karslake to be my wife.

Philip. Are you in your senses?