MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

But why?

MACPHAIL.

To get away from mother.

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

Poor boy!

MACPHAIL.

[Reflectively.] I've been thinking----

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

Yes?

MACPHAIL.

That you'd better let go my arm now.

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

Sir Colin!

MACPHAIL.

I've no personal objection, you understand; but mother's always looking for me.

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

How thoughtless I am! [He walks away.] Sir Colin!

MACPHAIL.

Aye?

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

Your mother is driving you to contract this marriage with Miss Twombley.

MACPHAIL.

Well, mother's just making the arrangements.

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

Your great heart hasn't gone out to her! Unhappiness must ensue! Your bright career will be dimmed!

MACPHAIL.

Will be _what?_

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

Dimmed. What did you think I said? Oh, Sir Colin, don't carry this unsuitable bride to Ballocheevin!

MACPHAIL.

Well, it's a serious step; but I've been thinking it would be another in the house.

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

You don't want another in the house. You need a strong, self-reliant wife who will take you out of the house.

MACPHAIL.

Eh?

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

A woman, loving but firm, tender but enterprising, who will bear you from your dilapidated home and plunge you into the vortex of some great city. [Suddenly.] Have you ever been to Paris?

MACPHAIL.

No.

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

I know every inch of it!

MACPHAIL.

Madam!

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.

Oh, what have I said! Sir Colin, you have guessed my secret!

[MACPHAIL produces his ball-programme from his stocking and refers to it.]

MACPHAIL.

I'm engaged to Miss Kilbouie for this waltz, if you'll excuse me.

MRS. GAYl.u.s.tRE.