Pil. Cook! you remember our appointment? Nine o'clock.
Dor. (in the distance) Are you coming, sir?
Pil. (to Dorvaston) Yes—in one moment! (to Cook) Nine! you quite understand?
Car. (calmly) Quite!
Pil. Thank you. I thought I would just recall it to your memory. I'm coming, Captain Dorvaston! (he goes; Cook continues her work; Gandy enters R., is crossing to door, stops, comes to top of table R.; he has changed his dress and carries a small hand-bag; he puts this down and his hat, and hastily consults silver watch)
Gan. Cook, I'm a leetle pressed for time—but I find I've just got three minutes and a 'alf to waste.
Car. Well, what is it? (washing glasses L.)
Gan. I'll come straight to the pint. I've saved money—I'm sick of service, and I want to settle down. I know of a eatin' 'ouse to be 'ad—good situation—terms moderate—part cash down—remainder in monthly instalments. Will you marry me and take over the kitchen department?
Car. No.
Gan. (Cook crosses to oven and kneels and opens it) Don't be 'asty now. We should crush all local competition. Think it over careful. (looks at his watch again) I can give you a minute and a 'alf. I'm a staid respectable man, and I want a staid respectable wife.