Julia. Oh, no. [Sighs.]
Lady Dol. I remember quite well that before I married Herbert he often suffered from the oddest moods of depression. Several times he entreated me to break off the engagement. His affection was so reverential that he feared he was not worthy of me. I assure you I had the greatest difficulty in overcoming his scruples, and persuading him that whatever his faults were I could help him to subdue them.
Julia. But Cyril and I are not engaged. It is all so uncertain, so humiliating.
Lady Dol. Men take these things for granted. If the truth were known, I daresay he already regards you as his wife.
Julia. [With an inspired air.] Perhaps that is why he treats me so unkindly. I have often thought that if he were my husband he could not be more disagreeable! He has not a word for me when I speak to him. He does not hear. Oh, Lady Doldrummond, I know what is the matter. He is in love, but I am not the one. You are all wrong.
Lady Dol. No, no, no. He loves you; I am sure of it. Only be patient with him and it will come all right. Hush! is that his step? Stay here, darling, and I will go into my room and write letters. [Exit, brushing the tears from her eyes.]
[Butler ushers in Mr. Mandeville. Neither of them perceive Julia, who has gone to the window.]
Butler. His Lordship will be down in half an hour, sir. He is now having his hair brushed.
Julia. [In surprise as she looks round.] Mr. Mandeville! [Pause.] I hardly expected to meet you here.
Mandeville. And why, may I ask?