Richard: In a half hour, sir.

Mr. Valdingam: Good. If Dr. Van Hyde does not arrive within that time, you will take the train and fetch him. Do you understand?

Richard: Yes, sir.

Mr. Valdingam: Meanwhile, tell my sister that I want to speak with her. (Exit Richard, L.) Now I’ll surprise that excellent woman; excellent, that is to say, if she possessed an ounce of brains. If she could have her way, Rose would soon be in a lunatic asylum.

(Enter Susan, L.)

Susan (curtly): You have something to say to me?

Mr. Valdingam (sharply): Get ready a supper for two—for two—do you hear?

Susan: For two?

Mr. Valdingam: And you can serve it in this room.

Susan: You are expecting a friend?