ETHEL. [Enters left.] Mother, what's the matter?
MRS. MASTERSON. Ethel! You knew of this outrageous plot...
OCEANA. One moment, Aunt Sophronia. The blame for this rests upon me alone. I told Ethel that the dance was all right.
MRS. MASTERSON. Ethel, leave the room. This is no place for you.
ETHEL. Mother! The people are waiting...
MRS. MASTERSON. Go at once! [To DR. MASTERSON.] Quincy, go out and make some apology to our guests. Explain to them that we had no idea... we were imposed upon...
[Applause heard off left.]
OCEANA. Perhaps if your guests were consulted...
DR. MASTERSON. My dear Sophronia...
MRS. MASTERSON. [Pushes him off.] Go! Quickly! [Turns to OCEANA.] And as for you, Anna Talbot, there is no more to be said. You have overwhelmed me with shame.