Hastings: We must keep up the deception with Marlow; else he will fly.
Hastings has planned to elope with Miss Neville; she wishes first to get into her own hands her jewelry, which is in Mrs. Hardcastle's possession. As they complete their plot Marlow enters.
Hastings: My dear Marlow, the most fortunate event! Let me present Miss Constance Neville. She and Miss Hardcastle have just alighted to take fresh horses. Miss Hardcastle will be here directly. Isn't it fortunate?
Marlow: Oh, yes; very fortunate, a most joyful encounter; but our dresses, George! To-morrow will be every bit as convenient. Let it be to-morrow.
Hastings: Pshaw, man! Courage, courage! It is but the first plunge.
[Enter Kate as from a walk. Hastings introduces them.
Kate (after a pause): I am glad of your safe arrival, sir. I am told you had some accidents by the way.
Marlow: A few, madam. Yes, we had some. Yes, a good many. But should be sorry, madam—I mean glad—of any accidents that are so agreeably concluded. George, sure you won't go?
Hastings: You don't consider, man, that we are to manage a little tête-à-tête of our own.