Etchingham.
[With elaborate politeness.] Be so good as to sit down, Catherine.
[Catherine exchanges with her mother a glance of faint amusement and takes a seat.
Etchingham.
[With a fine assumption of paternal authority.] I want to talk to you. Your mother and I have sent for you.... [Breaking out.] Now what does all this mean? It’s ridiculous nonsense. You’re surely old enough to have learnt a little self-control.
Catherine.
[Calmly.] I’ve shown a good deal of self-control during the four years of my married life, father. I was afraid it was growing into a habit.
Etchingham.
Am I to understand that what your mother tells me is true?
Catherine.