All through my life I’ve been conscious of the hand of God shaping the destinies of man. I’ve never seen His loving mercy more plainly manifest.

[Kate opens the door and stands on the threshold, but does not come into the room.

Kate.

The woman’s come, ma’am.

Mrs. Wharton.

Very well. I’m just coming.

[Kate goes out and shuts the door behind her. Mrs. Wharton takes up her basket of flowers.

Mrs. Wharton.

John will be in immediately, Sylvia. He promised to come and relieve me at half-past eight, so that I might get something to eat. Will you see him?

Sylvia.