BENNET. But you must have known that Lord Bantock -
FANNY. I didn't know he was Lord Bantock. I only knew him as Mr.
Wetherell, an artist. He wanted to feel sure that I was marrying him
for himself alone. He never told me--[Ernest Bennet, a very young
footman, has entered in answer to Bennet's ring of a minute ago. He
has come forward step by step, staring all the while open-mouthed at
Fanny. Turning, she sees him beside her.] Hulloa, Ernie. How are
the rabbits? [She kisses him.]
BENNET. Don't stand there gaping. I rang for some wood. Tell your
brother dinner will be at a quarter to eight.
Ernest, never speaking, still staring at Fanny, gets clumsily out
again.
FANNY. Well, I suppose I'd better see about dressing? Do I dine
with his lordship or in the servants' hall?
MRS. BENNET [turns to her husband]. You see! Still the old
impertinence.
FANNY. Only wanted to know. My only desire is to give satisfaction.
BENNET [he moves towards the door]. You will do it by treating the
matter more seriously. At dinner, by keeping your eye upon me, you
will be able to tell whether you are behaving yourself or not.
MRS. BENNET. And mind you are punctual. I have appointed Jane to be
your maid.
FANNY. Jane!
MRS. BENNET [in arms]. Have you any objections?
FANNY. No, oh no, so long as you're all satisfied.
MRS. BENNET. Remember, you are no longer on the music-hall stage.
In dressing for Bantock Hall you will do well to follow her advice.
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