Mrs. Phillimore sighs. Miss Heneage keeps her temper with an effort which is obvious. Thomas opens the door.
Sudley. [To Mrs. Phillimore.] For my part, I don't believe Mrs. Karslake means to return here or to marry Philip at all!
Thomas. [Coming in, and approaching Miss Heneage.] Two telegrams for you, ma'am! The choir boys have had their supper. [A slight movement ripples the ominous calm of all. Thomas steps back.
Sudley. [Rising.] At last we shall know!
Miss Heneage. From the lady! Probably!
Miss Heneage opens the first telegram and reads it at a glance, laying it on the salver again with a look at Sudley. Thomas passes the salver to Sudley, who takes the telegram.
Grace. There's a toot now.
Mrs. Phillimore. [Feebly, confused.] I don't wish to intrude, but really I cannot imagine Philip marrying at midnight. [As Sudley reads, Miss Heneage opens the second telegram, but does not read it.
Sudley. [Reading.] "Accident, auto struck"—something! "Gasoline"—did something—illegible, ah! [Reads.] "Home by nine forty-five! Hold the church!"