JUDGE

And you, Lucy?

LUCY

[_with a nervous glance at JOHN_]

Absolutely.

JUDGE

[_to the lovers_]

There. You see?

[_ERNEST looks from one to the other in amazement._

HELEN

[_laughing_]

I don't believe a word of it!

JUDGE

Why not? why not?

HELEN

Very well, then invite the whole family here next Sunday!

JUDGE

They'll be here in an hour.

[_Points to tables._

HELEN _and_ ERNEST

[_recoiling_]

In an hour!

JUDGE

Yes, you are to begin your new life together this evening! Isn't it lovely?

HELEN

[_gasping_]

But that's so sudden. Why, we--we aren't ready.

THEODORE

Just as ready as you'll ever be.

JUDGE

Ernest's vacation begins to-morrow--your honeymoon.

HELEN

But, don't you see----

LUCY

Those new Paris clothes John gave you--your trousseau.

ERNEST

Well, but----

JUDGE

And this family gathering this evening, your--in a manner of speaking--wedding party. [_Waving aside all the lovers' objections._]

Now, it's all fixed, let's go and dress for the--as it were--ceremony.

ERNEST

[_blocks the way. Serious_]

Wait! Did I ever say I would not marry this woman?