Mr. Freeman: I can’t help that. You’re in my house; under my charge.
[John comes in.
Come in. I’ve just had to put my foot down. I’ve forbidden your sister to go out with Mr. Mackenzie.
John: Forbidden!
Mr. Freeman: Yes. Forbidden! If I don’t take a strong line, goodness knows where we shall get to. You young people think you can play highty-tighty just as you please.... As I say, I’ve no wish to be offensive to Mr. Mackenzie. It’s very good of him to spend so much time on her.... Every now and again. Yes. Of course. But six times a week! The thing becomes ridiculous. (To Colin.) I hope you understand my position.
Colin: I think perhaps you don’t quite understand my position. I have asked your daughter to marry me.
Mr. Freeman: This is the first I’ve heard of it.
Colin: I only asked her a few minutes ago.
Mr. Freeman: Well, of course, this does rather alter the aspect of things.... I don’t know what to say; ’pon my word, you’ve rather taken the wind out of my sails ... of course, it’s all got to be considered. I shall want to talk to you ... then, if I approve, and her mother ... the whole thing wants talking over.
Gwen (she is very pale, and her teeth are set): You needn’t talk it over, thank you. I’ve made up my mind.