_Enter MRS. PARBURY, L., wearing a bright smile, which fades when she sees GUNNING._
Mabel, I want to present you to my dear old friend, George Gunning. My wife, George.
[_GUNNING crosses to MRS. PARBURY. Shakes hands._
[_She gives him simultaneously a cold smile and a stiff handshake._
I'm very delighted to meet Clement's wife.
Thank you. [_Aside to PARBURY._] She's charming!
[_PARBURY digs him in the ribs. GUNNING goes to tea-table. PARBURY sits at desk._
[_Handing GUNNING tea-cup._] I've given you no sugar.
_Enter MISS WOODWARD, R.I.E., with MS., which she hands to PARBURY._
[_Takes MISS WOODWARD'S cup to her, and offers her bread and butter, &c._
You've often heard me speak of Gunning, Mabel; we were at Cambridge together.
Oh yes, I remember! [_To GUNNING._] You were very great friends?
[_Comes over and takes his tea._] You see, Gunning had been my fag at Harrow, and my ill-treatment of him inspired a dog-like devotion. [_To MISS WOODWARD._] Let me take your cup. [_Adds in a lower voice._] I've an idea!
[_MISS WOODWARD goes to desk; PARBURY follows her to desk._]
[_Assists MRS. PARBURY with the tea service._
[_To MISS WOODWARD in a low voice._] I think I can finish the article in three sentences. Take your notes into the other room; I'll join you in a moment.
[_MISS WOODWARD gathers her notes and exits R._]
[_Pouring out a fresh cup of tea for GUNNING._] But of course it's not in the nature of things that college friendships, however strong, can last always. Time estranges, doesn't it, Mr. Gunning, and fate drives people into different--well, different ways of life, doesn't it? Some men marry soon. Are you married, Mr. Gunning?
He has too much respect for your sex, dear. Forgive me for three minutes.
Not married! Well, I should have thought----
That I'm old enough to know better. I admit it.
Well, I was going to say that in marriage a man changes so much. He becomes more--more----
Well, I wasn't going to say quite that; though, as you suggest it, no doubt it is true. I was going to say more responsible. He enters into a broader, a fuller life; he gains in nobility, don't you think?
[_Amused._] Oh, no doubt Clement has improved enormously!
I'm so glad you recognise that. You may smoke, Mr. Gunning, if you care to.