Secretary. Ah, from a band we might expect airs. But I should advise you very strongly, Sir Lyon, to treat them as friends. You must be up to date.
Sir Lyon (with disgust). Allow them to dine—perhaps to dance—with my guests?
Secretary (with calmness). Certainly they will have to dine; and, as to dancing, of course they must, if they're received on an equal footing.
[Smiles to himself at his joke.
Sir Lyon. Oh—well—I suppose I must give in. Let them know at once, and for heaven's sake mind they're punctual.
[Scene closes as the Secretary hastily seizes a slate, and automatically writes to the Ghosts a very cordial and courteously-worded invitation.
Scene II.—New Year's Eve at Latterday Hall. In the magnificent dining-room are seated at dinner a large, well-known, and incongruous company. The Ghosts are chatting away in the most genial manner with the living distinguished people, and positively making the "celebrities" quite "at home." Daniel Deronda shows a marked liking for Dodo, whom he has taken to dinner, and is indulging in a light and airy flirtation with her, which takes a form peculiar to himself.
Dorian Gray taking Juliet in to dinner.
Daniel Deronda (earnestly). Who has ever pinched into its pilulous smallness the cobweb of matrimonial duty? Honesty is surely the broadest basis of joy in life.