Mrs. V. T. My domino?
Fred. I overheard it mentioned. I was sorry to learn your secret, but really I couldn’t help it.
Mrs. V. T. It really does not matter. But I am glad you told me. Most men would have kept mum and let me talk on about “our host’s pretty daughter,” and then have never let me hear the last of it.
Fred. I’m afraid I’m no better than the rest of my sex, Miss Wortley. With most women I should have done that.
Mrs. V. T. And why am I an exception?
Fred. I didn’t want to deceive you.
Mrs. V. T. Why not?
Fred. Because I wanted you to think well of me.
Mrs. V. T. Why, I do that already. If you only knew how I respected and admired the men who have been real friends, and not seekers of my money!
Fred. Miss Wortley, I thank you for your kind thoughts of me, but you mustn’t think them any longer.