I assure you I’m perfectly serious. You taunted me that I couldn’t make love, so I just let myself go to show you I could. I daresay it was a silly joke, but it certainly was a joke.

Mrs. Dot.

[Unmoved.] James, every word you say increases my admiration for you. I can’t think now how I was ever blind to your great affection.

Blenkinsop.

But don’t you hear what I say?

Mrs. Dot.

Do you think you can take me in so easily?

Blenkinsop.

You don’t believe me?

Mrs. Dot.