UNDER THE ROSE.
(A Story in Scenes.)
Scene XVIII.—The Drawing-room, as before. The door opens, and Phœbe appears.
Phœbe (to Mrs. Toovey). If you please, ma'am, Mrs. Cumberbatch——
Mrs. Toovey (in a rapid whisper). Not here, Phœbe! Show her into the study—anywhere. Say I'll come!
Phœbe. She said she hadn't time to come in, m'm; she left her compliments, and just called to let you know the Banana Meeting will be next Friday. And oh, if you please, m'm, I wished to ask you about that dress you wore last Saturday. I've tried everything, and I can't get the smell of tobaccer out of it, do what I will, m'm. (To herself.) That'll teach her not to accuse me of hiding followers downstairs!
Althea (to herself). Mine had to be left all night in a thorough draught. Where could Mamma have been, unless——?
Mrs. Toov. (with dignity). I came home in a smoky cab, and you know perfectly well this is not the place to ask me such questions. Leave the room!
Phœbe (to herself, as she leaves). A smoky cab indeed! There's no smoke without fire—as Master will find out before long!