Of--of her ladyship?
DR. FREEMANTLE. What's she like?
BENNET. [They have sunk their voices.] Well, it might have been
worse.
DR. FREEMANTLE. Ah! There's always that consolation, isn't there?
BENNET. I think her ladyship--with MANAGEMENT--may turn out very
satisfactory.
DR. FREEMANTLE. You like her?
BENNET. At present, I must say for her, she appears willing to be
taught.
DR. FREEMANTLE. And you think it will last?
BENNET. I think her ladyship appreciates the peculiarity of her
position. I will tell the Miss Wetherells you are here.
DR. FREEMANTLE. Ah, thanks!
BENNET. I fancy her ladyship will not herself be visible much before
lunch time. I understand she woke this morning with a headache. [He
goes out.]
The Doctor reads a moment. Then the door of the dressing-room opens,
and Fanny enters. Her dress is a wonderful contrast to her costume
of last evening. It might be that of a poor and demure nursery
governess. Her hair is dressed in keeping. She hardly seems the
same woman.
FANNY [seeing the Doctor, she pauses]. Oh!
DR. FREEMANTLE [rises]. I beg pardon, have I the pleasure of seeing
Lady Bantock?
FANNY. Yes.
DR. FREEMANTLE. Delighted. May I introduce myself--Dr. Freemantle?
I helped your husband into the world.
FANNY. Yes. I've heard of you. You don't mind my closing this
door, do you? [Her very voice and manner are changed.]
DR. FREEMANTLE [a little puzzled].
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