[She pouts.
Und. (to himself). I can't let this poor girl think me a brute! But I must be careful not to go too far. (To her, in an undertone which he tries to render unemotional.) Don't misunderstand me like that. If I looked at my watch, it was merely to count the minutes that are left. In one short half hour I must go—I must pass out of your life, and you must forget—oh, it will be easy for you—but for me, ah! you cannot think that I shall carry away a heart entirely unscathed. Believe me I shall always look back gratefully, regretfully, on——
Phill. (bending her head with a gratified little giggle). I declare you're beginning all that again. I never did see such a cure as you are.
Und. (to himself, displeased). I wish she could bring herself to take me a little more seriously. I can not consider it a compliment to be called a "cure"—whatever that is.
Steptoe (considering it time to interfere). Come, Mr. Undershell all this whispering reelly is not fair on the company! You mustn't hide your bushel under a napkin like this; don't reserve all your sparklers for Miss Phillipson there.
Und. (stiffly). I—ah—was not making any remark that could be described as a sparkler, Sir. I don't sparkle.
Phill. (demurely). He was being rather sentimental just then, Mr. Steptoe, as it happens. Not that he can't sparkle, when he likes. I'm sure if you'd heard how he went on in the fly!
Steptoe (with malice). Not having been privileged to be present, perhaps our friend here could recollect a few of the best and repeat them.
Miss Dolman. Do, Mr. Undershell, please. I do love a good laugh.
Und. (crimson). I—you really must excuse me. I said nothing worth repeating. I don't remember that I was particularly——