Only this morning, in
writing to my housekeeper, I warned her that she might hear at
any moment a most startling announcement.
DEVENISH (cheerfully). Oh, that's all right. That might only mean
that you were getting a new bowler-hat.
BAXTER (suddenly). Ah, and what about you, sir? How is it that you
take this so lightly? (Triumphantly.) I have it. It all becomes
clear to me. You have transferred your affections to her daughter!
DEVENISH. Oh, I say, Baxter, this is very crude.
BELINDA. And why should he not, Mr. Baxter? (Softly.) He has made
me very happy.
BAXTER. He has made you happy, Mrs. Tremayne!
BELINDA. Very happy.
BAXTER (thoughtfully). Ah! (He takes a turn round the room in,
silence, and then comes back to her.) Mrs. Tremayne, I have taken
a great resolve. (Solemnly.) I also will make you happy. (Thumping
his heart.) I also will woo Miss Delia. (Suddenly seizing
DEVENISH'S arm) Come, we will seek Miss Delia together. It may be
that she will send us upon another quest in which I shall again be
victorious. (Tempestuously) Come, I say! (He marches the resisting
DEVENISH to the swing doors.)
DEVENISH (to BELINDA). Please!
BELINDA (gently). Mr. Baxter... Harold. (BAXTER stops and turns
round.) You are too impetuous. I think that as Delia's mother--
BAXTER. Your pardon, Mrs.
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