John. And then?
Vida. [The ideal woman in mind.] Then, perhaps, you and I may join hands and stroll together into the Garden of Eden. It takes two to find the Garden of Eden, you know—and once we're on the inside, we'll lock the gate.
John. [Gaily, and seeing straight through her veneer.] And lose the key under a rose-bush!
Vida. [Agreeing very softly.] Under a rose-bush! [There is a very soft knock at which John starts up quickly.] Come! [Brooks comes in, with Benson close at his heels.
Brooks. [Stolid, announces.] My lady—Sir Wilf— [Benson stops him with a sharp movement and turns toward Vida.
Benson. [With intention.] Your dressmaker, ma'am. [Benson waves Brooks to go and Brooks very haughtily complies.
Vida. [Wonderingly.] My dressmaker, Benson? [With quick intelligence.] Oh, of course, show her up. Mr. Karslake, you won't mind for a few minutes using my men's club-room? Benson will show you! You'll find cigars and the ticker, sporting papers, whiskey; and, if you want anything special, just 'phone down to my "chef."
John. [Looking at his watch.] How long?
Vida. [Very anxious to please.] Half a cigar! Benson will call you.
John. [Practically-minded.] Don't make it too long. You see, there's my sheriff's sale on at twelve, and those races this afternoon. Fiddler will be here in ten minutes, remember!