Oh, one of the family -
DR. FREEMANTLE. And why twelve girls in a van?
THE YOUNGER MISS WETHERELL. In a van?
DR. FREEMANTLE. One of Hutton's from the Station Hotel--with a big
poster pinned on the door: "Our Empire."
Fanny has risen. She crosses and rings the bell.
THE YOUNGER MISS WETHERELL. What's the matter, dear?
FANNY. I'm not quite sure yet. [Her whole manner is changed. A
look has come into her eyes that has not been there before. She
speaks in quiet, determined tones. She rings again. Then returning
to table, hands the cake-basket to the Doctor.] Won't you take one,
Doctor? They're not as indigestible as they look. [Laughs.]
DR. FREEMANTLE [he also is bewildered at the changed atmosphere].
Thank you. I hope I -
FANNY [she turns to Ernest, who has entered. Her tone, for the first
time, is that of a mistress speaking to her servants]. Have any
visitors called for me this afternoon?
ERNEST. Vi-visitors--?
FANNY. Some ladies.
ERNEST [he is in a slough of doubt and terror]. L--ladies?
FANNY. Yes. Please try to understand the English language. Has a
party of ladies called here this afternoon?
ERNEST. There have been some ladies. They--we -
FANNY. Where are they?
ERNEST. They--I -
FANNY. Send Bennet up to me. Instantly, please.
Ernest, only too glad to be off, stumbles out.
THE YOUNGER MISS WETHERELL. My dear -
FANNY. You'll take some more tea, won't you? Do you mind, Doctor,
passing Miss Wetherell's cup? And the other one.
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