Alec.

Don't laugh at me because you've found out that at heart I'm nothing more than a sentimental old woman.

Mrs. Crowley.

[Putting her hand on his arm.] What would you do if Lucy came here to-day?

[Alec starts, looks at her sharply, then answers
with deliberation
.

Alec.

I have always lived in polite society. I should never dream of outraging its conventions. If Miss Allerton happened to come, you may be sure I should be scrupulously polite.

Mrs. Crowley.

Is that all? Lucy has suffered very much.

Alec.