Kate. I’m sorry to hear that. I hope he will be well enough to shake hands with me before I go.
Bea. Then you are determined to leave us?
Kate. (leaves can up R.C., and comes down C.) I can’t tell you how sorry I am, but I mustn’t stop here for ever. Mildred learnt all that I can teach her long ago; and if I stay much longer, I shall be the pupil. Since Mr. Verinder’s arrival I have had several lessons in the English language as it is spoken at Eton, and I flatter myself I shall soon be able to “cackle” as well as if I wore a remarkably short jacket and remarkably tight inexpressibles.
Bea. You under-rate your accomplishments. I don’t think there is much that Mildred could teach you.
Kate. (grimaces behind her back) Don’t make me blush, my dear.
Bea. You make me blush sometimes.
Kate. Then you ought to be extremely obliged to me, for nothing becomes you better. (grimaces as before) Mrs. Selwyn, we are now quite old friends. I cannot leave Ravenhurst without some little memento of our companionship—There are no horrid men about to hear us—Before I go, tell me (dropping down near Beatrice into an attitude of mock earnestness) oh, tell me—— (behind sofa R. of Beatrice)
Bea. Well?
Kate. The secret of your complexion.
Bea. (smiling) It’s a very simple one—Arsenic.