ERNEST
Not in the least. I've been there. [_JOHN comes out to breakfast. He is scowling._] Good morning; could you spare me five minutes?
JOHN
[_ringing bell_]
Haven't had breakfast yet.
ERNEST
After breakfast?
JOHN
I've an appointment with young Baker.
ERNEST
[_smiles_]
I'll wait my turn.
JOHN
Going to be pretty busy to-day--you, too, I suppose, if you're sailing to-morrow.
ERNEST
I can postpone sailing. This is more important.
JOHN
I should hate to see _anything_ interfere with your career.
[_LUCY also arrives for breakfast. She "always pours her husband's coffee."_
ERNEST
I appreciate your interest, but I'll look out for my "career." [_To LUCY._] Could you tell me when your sister will be down?
JOHN
[_overriding LUCY_]
My sister is ill and won't be down at all ... until _after_ you _leave_.
[_LUCY pretends not to hear. THEODORE walks away._
ERNEST
[_aroused, but calm_]
I don't believe you quite understand. It is a matter of indifference to me whether we have a talk or not. Entirely out of courtesy to you that I suggest it.
JOHN
Don't inconvenience yourself on my account.
ERNEST
[_shrugs shoulders and turns to THEODORE_]
Wait, I think I'll sit in church till train time.
THEODORE
[_smoothing it over_]
Come along. I'm going to preach about marriage!
[_THEODORE starts off._
ERNEST
[_going, turns to LUCY_]
Thanks for your kindness. Will you ask the valet to pack my things, please? I'll call for them on the way to the station. [_To JOHN._] Do you understand? I have no favors to ask of you. You don't own your sister--she owns herself.
[_The scientist goes to church._
JOHN
[_with a loud laugh, turns to LUCY_]