[Shaking hands with Mrs. Wharton and with the Colonel.] I wanted to come in, but I thought you mightn’t wish to see me to-day, so I put it like that to make it easier for you to send me about my business.

Mrs. Wharton.

We always wish to see you, my dear.

Mrs. Poole.

If I had a son that I hadn’t seen for four years and he’d been dangerously wounded, I think I’d want to keep him to myself for the first few days after he got home.

Colonel Wharton.

Then you’re not as unselfish a woman as Evelyn.

Mrs. Wharton.

Or perhaps not nearly so vain.

Mrs. Poole.