Penelope: A Comedy in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

I like him. He talks of all the duchesses by their Christian names.

[Peyton announces Barlow and goes out.

Peyton.

Mr. Davenport Barlow.

[As he comes in, Mrs. Fergusson finally and entirely regains her usual manner.

Penelope.

[Kissing her uncle.] How d’you do?

Barlow.

[Advancing gallantly to Mrs. Fergusson.] This is a pleasing surprise. I was under the impression you were in Paris.