For better, for worse, Margery.

MARGERY.

For better, for worse.

GERALD.

You are not frightened?

MARGERY.

Not now, Mr. Gerald.

GERALD.

Then call me, Gerald.

MARGERY.

Gerald!

[_Dropping on her knee by his side._

GERALD.

_You_'re not afraid to make those promises!

MARGERY.

No, Gerald!

GERALD.

To love--to honour.

MARGERY.

And obey!

[_Looking up at him._

ACT II.

_Twelve months have elapsed._

SCENE.--_Study at GERALD'S opening upon a little boudoir, through curtains which are drawn across part of the stage at back. Doors, R., and L.U.E. Mantelpiece, between doors, R._

_GERALD discovered, seated at a writing table, with his back to the curtains, writing busily. MARGERY'S head appears through the curtains, which she holds closely round it, so that only her face is visible.

She watches GERALD for a few moments, with a broad smile on her face._

MARGERY.

Bo!

[_Withdraws her head._

GERALD [_starts and looks round_].

Margery, of course!

[_Resumes his writing. A peal of laughter behind the curtains, and MARGERY'S head reappears, laughing. GERALD throws down his pen._

MARGERY [_running in_].

Did I startle you?

GERALD.

Not much; I'm getting used to it.

MARGERY.

Well, don't be cross!

GERALD.

I'm not cross, dear; but these repeated interludes make composition rather difficult.

MARGERY.

Oh, bother! you've been all the morning at that stupid book, and I'm so happy, I can't help it. Kiss me, and say that you forgive me!

GERALD.

Of course I forgive you!

MARGERY.

Kiss me, then!

GERALD.

My dear----

MARGERY.