Mrs. F. (disapprovingly). How very odd. I thought they only did that in India. But who are all those people looking-on?
Mr. F. Smart people of the period, my dear. Of course Dido would send out invitations for a big function like that—Wind-up of the season—Farewell Reception—sure to be a tremendous rush for cards. Notice the evident enjoyment of the guests. They are depicted in the act of remarking to one another that their hostess is doing all in her power to make the thing go off well. Keen observer of human nature, old LIBERALE!
Mrs. F. Selfish creatures!
IN THE VESTIBULE.
Mrs. Townley-Ratton (about to leave with her husband, encounters her cousins, the Miss RURAL-RATTONS, who have just arrived). Why, SOPHY, MARY! how are you? this is too delightful! When did you come up? How long are you going to be in town? When can you come and see me?
Miss Sophy Rattan (answering the two last questions). Till the end of the week. What will be the best time to find you?
Mrs. T.R. (warmly). Oh, any time! I'm almost always in—except the afternoons, of course. I'm going out to tea or something every day this week!
Miss Sophy R. Well, how would some time in the morning—
Mrs. T.R. The morning? No, I'm afraid—I'm afraid it mustn't be the morning this week—so many things that one has to see to!
Mr. T.R. (lazily). You'd better all come and dine quietly some evening.