Dean.
(Rising.) Lady Patricia, this is indeed an——
Mrs. O’Farrel.
No, Dean; it’s neither unexpected nor a pleasure.
Dean.
I must really beg of you, Eileen! (To Patricia.) Won’t you sit down?
Lady Patricia.
(Who has been standing at the back in an attitude of majestic humility. She speaks with pleading dignity.) Do you refuse me your hand?...
Dean.
(At her side, and taking her black-gloved hand in both of his.) My dear lady!