But not a real colonel, Claude. Only a Republican colonel.
Claude.
[Sternly.] I rose from the ranks in two years by merit.
Pauline.
I know, dear. Real colonels only rise by interest.
[Claude gasps.
James.
[Opening the door and showing in a wizened old lady in rusty black garments and a bonnet slightly awry.] Mrs. Melnotte.
[Pauline goes forward to greet her.
Mrs. Melnotte.