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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7a48eb0 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #54699 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/54699) diff --git a/old/54699-0.txt b/old/54699-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ba416c0..0000000 --- a/old/54699-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,8930 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Last of The De Mullins, by St. John Hankin - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - -Title: The Last of The De Mullins - A Play without a Preface - -Author: St. John Hankin - -Release Date: May 10, 2017 [EBook #54699] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LAST OF THE DE MULLINS *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger from page images generously -provided by the Internet Archive - - - - - - - - - - - -THE LAST OF THE DE MULLINS - -A Play without a Preface - -By St. John Hankin - -London: A. C. Fifield - -1909 - - - -The Persons in the Play - -Hugo De Mullin - -Jane De Mullin.....His wife - -Mrs. Clouston......His sister. - -Janet De Mullin....(Mrs. Seagrave) Hugo’s eldest daughter. - -Johnny Seagrave....Her son. - -Hester De Mullin...Her sister. - -Bertha Aldenham - -Monty Bulstead - -Dr. Rolt...........The local doctor. - -Mr. Brown..........The curate. - -Miss Deanes - -Ellen..............Maid at the De Mullins’. - - - -The action of the play takes place at Brendon -Underwood in Dorset, Acts I and III at the Manor -House, the De Mullins’ house in the village, Act -II on the borders of Brendon Forest. Three days -pass between Acts I and II, five between Acts II -and III. - - - - - -ACT I - -_Scene:_ The Inner Hall at the Manor House in -Brendon-Underwood village. An old-fashioned -white-panelled room. At the back is a big -stone-mullioned Tudor window looking out on -to the garden. On the left of this is a bay in -which is a smaller window. A door in the bay -leads out into the garden. People entering by -this door pass the window before they appear. -The furniture is oak, mostly Jacobean or older. -The right-hand wall of the room is mainly -occupied by a great Tudor fireplace, over which -the De Mullin Coat of Arms is carved in stone. -Above this a door leads to the outer hall and -front door. A door on the opposite side of the -room leads to the staircase and the rest of the -house. The walls are hung with a long succession -of family portraits of all periods and in all -stages of dinginess as to both canvas and frame. -When the curtain rises the stage is empty. Then -Hester is seen to pass the window at the back, -followed by Mr. Brown. A moment later -they enter. Mr. Brown is a stout, rather -unwholesome-looking curate, Hester a lean, -angular girl of twenty-eight, very plainly and -unattractively dressed in sombre tight-fitting -clothes. She has a cape over her shoulders and -a black hat on. Brown wears seedy clerical -garments, huge boots and a squashy hat. The time -is twelve o’clock in the morning of a fine day -in September. - - - -HESTER - -Come in, Mr. Brown. I’ll tell mother you’re -here. I expect she’s upstairs with father (going -towards door). - - - -BROWN - -Don’t disturb Mrs. De Mullin, please. I didn’t -mean to come in. - - - -HESTER - -You’ll sit down now you _are_ here? - - - -BROWN - -Thank you (_does so awkwardly_). I’m so glad to -hear Mr. De Mullin is better. The Vicar will be -glad too. - - - -HESTER - -Yes. Dr. Rolt thinks he will do all right now. - - - -BROWN - -You must have been very anxious when he was -first taken ill. - - - -HESTER - -We were terribly anxious. [Hester _takes off her -hat and cape and puts them down on the window -seat_. - - - -BROWN - -I suppose there’s no doubt it was some sort of -stroke? - - - -HESTER - -Dr. Rolt says no doubt. - - - -BROWN - -How did it happen? - - - -HESTER - -We don’t know. He had just gone out of the room -when we heard a fall. Mother ran out into the -hall and found him lying by the door quite -unconscious. She was dreadfully frightened. So -were we all. - - - -BROWN - -Had he been complaining of feeling unwell? - - - -HESTER - -Not specially. He complained of the heat a -little. And he had a headache. But father’s not -strong, you know. None of the De Mullins are, -Aunt Harriet says. - - - -BROWN - -Mrs. Clouston is with you now, isn’t she? - - - -HESTER - -Yes. For a month. She generally stays with us -for a month in the summer. - - - -BROWN - -I suppose she’s very fond of Brendon? - - - -HESTER - -All the De Mullins are fond of Brendon, Mr. -Brown. - - - -BROWN - -Naturally. You have been here so long. - - - -HESTER - -Since the time of King Stephen. - - - -BROWN - -Not in this house? - - - -HESTER - -(smiling) - -Not in this house, of course. It’s not old -enough for that. - - - -BROWN - -Still, it must be very old. The oldest house in -the Village, isn’t it? - - - -HESTER - -Only about four hundred years. The date is 1603. -The mill is older, of course. - - - -BROWN - -You still own the mill, don’t you? - - - -HESTER - -Yes. Father would never part with it. He thinks -everything of the mill. We get our name from it, -you know. De Mullin. Du Moulin. “Of the Mill.” - - - -BROWN - -Were the original De Mullins millers then? - - - -HESTER - -(_rather shocked at such a suggestion_) - -Oh no! - - - -BROWN - -I thought they couldn’t have been. . - - - -HESTER - -No De Mullin has ever been in trade of _any_ -kind! But in the old days to own a mill was a -feudal privilege. Only lords of manors and the -great abbeys had them. The farmers had to bring -all their corn to them to be ground. - - - -BROWN - -I see. - - - -HESTER - -There were constant disputes about it all -through the Middle Ages. - - - -BROWN - -Why was that? - - - -HESTER - -The farmers would rather have ground their corn -for themselves, I suppose. - - - -BROWN - -Why? If the De Mullins were willing to do it for -them? - - - -HESTER - -They had to pay for having it ground, of course. - - - -BROWN - -(_venturing on a small joke_) - -Then the De Mullins _were_ millers, after all, -in a sense. - - - -HESTER - -You mustn’t let father hear you say so! - - - -BROWN - -The mill is never used now, is it? - - - -HESTER - -No. When, people gave up growing corn round here -and all the land was turned into pasture it fell -into decay, and now it’s almost ruinous. - - - -BROWN - -What a pity! - - - -HESTER - -Yes. Father says England has never been the same -since the repeal of the Corn laws. (_Enter Mrs. -De Mullin and Mrs. Clouston by the door on -the left, followed by Dr. Rolt._) Here is -mother--and Aunt Harriet. - -_Mrs. De Mullin, poor lady, is a crushed, -timid creature of fifty-eight or so, entirely -dominated by the De Mullin fetish and quite -unable to hold her own against either her -husband or her sister-in-law, a hardmouthed, -resolute woman of sixty. Even Hester she finds -almost too much for her. For the rest a gentle, -kindly lady, rather charming in her extreme -helplessness. Rolt is the average country -doctor, brisk, sensible, neither a fool nor a -genius._ - - - -ROLT - -(as they enter the room) - -He’s better. Distinctly better. A little weak -and depressed, of course. That’s only to be -expected. Good morning. - -[_Shakes hands with Hester. Nods to Brown_. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Mr. De Mullin is always nervous about himself. - - - -ROLT - -Yes. Constitutional, no doubt. But he’ll pick -up in a few days. Keep him as quiet as you can. -That’s really all he needs now. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You don’t think he ought to stay in his room? - -... Good morning, Mr. Brown. Are you waiting to -see me? - -[_Brown shakes hands with both ladies._ - - - -BROWN - -(_awkwardly_) - -Not specially. I walked over from the church -with Miss De Mullin. - - - -HESTER - -Is father coming downstairs, mother? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes, Hester. He insisted on getting up. You know -he always hates staying in his room. - - - -HESTER - -Oh, Dr. Rolt, do you think he _should?_ - - - -ROLT - -I don’t think it will do him any harm. He can -rest quietly in a chair or on the sofa.... Well, -I must be off. Good-bye, Mrs. De Mullin. - -[_Shakes hands briskly with every one_. - - - -BROWN - -(_rising ponderously_) - -I must be going too (_shakes hands with Mrs. De -Mullin_). You’ll tell Mr. De Mullin I inquired -after him? Good-bye, Mrs. Clouston (_shakes -hands_). And you’re coming to help with the -Harvest Decorations on Saturday, aren’t you, -Miss De Mullin? - - - -HESTER - -_(shaking hands)_ - -Of course. - -[_Brown and Rolt go out._ - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(seating herself and beginning to knit -resolutely)_ - -What singularly unattractive curates the Vicar -seems to get hold of, Jane!. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(meekly)_ - -Do you think so, Harriet? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Quite remarkably. This Mr. Brown, for instance. -He has the most enormous _feet!_ And his boots! -I’ve never seen such boots! - - - -HESTER - -_(flushing)_ - -We needn’t sneer if Mr. Brown doesn’t wear fine -clothes, Aunt Harriet. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Of course not Hester. Still, I think he goes -to the opposite extreme. And he really is quite -abnormally plain. Then there was that Mr. Snood, -who was curate when I was down last year. -The man with the very red hands. (_These acid -comments are too much for Hester, who flounces -out angrily. Mrs. Clouston looks up for a -moment, wondering what is the meaning of this -sudden disappearance. Then continues unmoved._) -I’m afraid the clergy aren’t what they were in -our young days, Jane. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I don’t think I’ve noticed any falling off. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -It is there all the same. I’m sure Hugo would -agree with me. Of course, curates are paid next -to nothing. Still, I think the Vicar might be -more happy in his choice. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I believe the poor like him. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(to whom this seems of small importance -compared with his shocking social disabilities)_ - -Very likely.... Do please keep still, Jane, and -don’t fidget with that book. What is the matter -with you? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I’m a little nervous this morning. Hugo’s -illness... - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Hugo’s almost well now. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Still the anxiety... - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Nonsense, Jane. Anxiety is not at all a thing to -give way to, especially when there’s no longer -anything to be anxious about. Hugo’s practically -well now. Dr. Rolt seems to have frightened us -all quite unnecessarily. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I suppose it’s difficult to tell. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Of course, it’s difficult. Otherwise no one -would send for a doctor. What are doctors for if -they can’t tell when a case is serious and when -it is not? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -But if he didn’t know? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Then he _ought_ to have known. Next time Hugo -is ill you’d better send to Bridport. _(Mrs. -De Mullin drops book on table with a clatter)_ -Really, Jane, what are you doing? Throwing books -about like that! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -It slipped out of my hand.,, - -[_Rises and goes up to window restlessly._ - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Is anything wrong? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(hesitating)_ - -Well, the truth is I’ve done something, Harriet, -and now I’m not sure whether I ought to have -done it. Mrs. Clouston - -Done what? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(dolorously)_ - -I’m afraid you won’t approve. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Perhaps you’d better tell me what it is. Then we -shall know. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -The fact is some one is coming here this -morning, Harriet--to see Hugo. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -To see Hugo? Who is it? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(with horror)_ - -Janet? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Janet! She wouldn’t _dare!_ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(dolorously)_ - -I sent for her, Harriet. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -You _sent_ for her? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. When Hugo was first taken ill and Dr. Rolt -seemed to think the attack was so serious.... - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Dr. Rolt was a fool. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Very likely, Harriet. But he said Hugo might -die. And he said if there was any one Hugo would -wish to see.... - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -But would Hugo wish to see Janet? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I thought he might. After all Janet _is_ his -daughter. Mrs. Clouston - -I thought he said he would never see her again? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -He did _say_ that, of course. But that was eight -years ago. And, of course, he wasn’t ill then. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -When did you send for her? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Three days ago. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Why didn’t she come _then_, if she was coming at -all? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She was away from home. That was so unfortunate. -If she had come when Hugo was ill in bed it -might have been all right. But now that he’s -almost well again.... - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -When did you hear she was coming? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Only this morning. Here is what she says.. - -[_Produces telegram from pocket_. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(reads)_ - -“Telegram delayed. Arrive mid-day. Seagrave.” - Seagrave? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. She calls herself Mrs. Seagrave now. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(nods)_ - -On account of the child, I suppose. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I suppose so. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -I never could understand how Janet came to go so -wrong. _(Mrs. De Mullin sighs.)_ None of the _De -Mullins_ have ever done such a thing before. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(plaintively)_ - -I’m sure she doesn’t get it from _my_ family. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Well, she must have got it from _somewhere_. -She’s not in the least like a De Mullin. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(lamentably_) - -I believe it was all through bicycling. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Bicycling? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. When girls usen’t to scour about the -country as they do now these things didn’t -happen. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(severely)_ - -I never approved of Janet’s bicycling you -remember, Jane. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Nor did I, Harriet. But it was no use. Janet -only laughed. Janet never would do what she -was told about things even when she was quite a -child. She was so very obstinate. She was always -getting some idea or other into her head. And -when she did nothing would prevent her from -carrying it out. At one time she wanted to -_teach_. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -I remember. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She said girls ought to go out and earn their -own living like boys. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -What nonsense! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -So Hugo said. But Janet wouldn’t listen. Finally -we had to let her go over and teach the Aldenham -girls French three times a week, just to keep -her amused. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(thoughtfully)_ - -It was strange you never could find out who the -father was. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(sighs)_ - -Yes. She wouldn’t tell us. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -You should have made her tell you. Hugo should -have insisted on it. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Hugo did insist. He was terribly angry with her. -He sent her to her room and said she was not to -come down till she told us. But it was no use. -Janet just stayed in her room till we had all -gone to bed and then took the train to London. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -You should have locked her door. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -We did. She got out of the window. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Got out of the window! The girl might have been -killed. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. But Janet was always fond of climbing. And -she was never afraid of anything. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -But there’s no late train to London. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She caught the mail at Weymouth, I suppose. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Do you mean to say she _walked_ all the way to -Weymouth in the middle of the night? Why, it’s -twelve miles. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She had her bicycle as I said. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Tck!... How did you know she went to London? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She wrote from there, for her things. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -I wonder she wasn’t ashamed. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -So Hugo said. However, he said I might send -them. But he made me send a letter with the -things to say that he would have nothing more to -do with her and that she was not to write again. -For a time she didn’t write. Nearly five months. -Then, when her baby was born, she wrote to tell -me. That was how I knew she had taken the name -of Seagrave. She mentioned it. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Did you show the letter to Hugo? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -What did he say? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Nothing. He just read it and gave it back to me -without a word. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -That’s the last you’ve heard of her, I suppose? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Oh no, Harriet. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Do you mean to say she goes _on_ writing? And -you allow her? When Hugo said she was not to? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(meekly)_ - -Yes. Not often, Harriet. Only occasionally. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -She has no business to write at all. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Her letters are quite short. Sometimes I wish -they were longer. They really tell one nothing -about herself, though I often ask her. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -You _ask_ her! Then _you_ write too! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I answer her letters, of course. Otherwise she -wouldn’t go on writing. ‘ - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Really, Jane, I’m surprised at you. So you’ve -actually been corresponding with Janet all -these years--and never told _me!_ I think you’ve -behaved very badly. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I didn’t like to, Harriet. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Didn’t like to! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -And as you don’t think I _ought_ to hear from -her.... - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON. - -I don’t think you ought to hear from her, of -course. But as you do hear naturally I should -like to have seen the letters. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I didn’t know that, Harriet. In fact, I thought -you would rather not. When a dreadful thing like -this happens in a family it seems best not to -write about it or to speak of it either, doesn’t -it? Hugo and I never speak of it. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Does Hugo know you hear from her? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I think not. I have never told him. Nor Hester. -I’m sure Hester would disapprove. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -My dear Jane, what _can_ it matter whether -Hester approves or not? Hester knows nothing -about such things. At _her_ age! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Hester is twenty-eight. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Exactly. A girl like that. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(sighs)_ - -Girls have such very strong opinions nowadays. -Mrs. Clouston - -What does Janet live on? Teaching? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I suppose so. She had her Aunt Miriam’s legacy, -of four hundred pounds of course. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Only four hundred pounds. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -I never approved of that legacy, Jane. Girls -oughtn’t to have money left them. It makes them -too independent. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Aunt Miriam was always so fond of Janet. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Then she should have left the money to Hugo. -Fathers are the proper people to leave money to. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Hugo did have the _management_ of the -money--till Janet was twenty-one. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Why only till she was twenty-one? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -It was so in Aunt Miriam’s will. Of course, Hugo -would have gone on managing it for her. It was -very little trouble as it was all in Consols. -But Janet said she would rather look after it -for herself. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Ridiculous! As if girls could possibly manage -money! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -So Hugo said. But Janet insisted. So she got her -way. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -What did she do with it? Spend it? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -No. Put it into a Railway, she said. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -A Railway! How dangerous! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She said she would prefer it. She said Railways -sometimes went up. Consols never. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -She lost it all, of course? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I don’t know, Harriet. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -You don’t _know?_ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -No. I never liked to ask. Hugo was rather hurt -about the whole thing, so the subject was never -referred to. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Let me see. The child must be eight years old by -now. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Just eight. It will be nine years next March -since Janet went away. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -What did she call him? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Johnny. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Johnny! None of the De Mullins have ever been -called _Johnny_. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Perhaps it was his father’s name. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Perhaps so _(pause)_. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Do you think I ought to tell Hugo about Janet’s -coming? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Certainly. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I thought perhaps.... - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Nonsense, Jane. Of course, he must be told. You -ought to have told him from the very beginning? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Do you mean when I sent the telegram? But Hugo -was unconscious. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -As soon as he recovered consciousness then. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I did mean to. But he seemed so weak, and Dr. -Rolt said any excitement.... - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Dr. Rolt! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(goaded)_ - -Well, I couldn’t tell that Dr. Rolt knew so -little about Hugo’s illness, could I? And I was -afraid of the shock. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Still, he should have been told at once. It was -the only chance. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. I see that now. But I was afraid of the -shock, as I said. So I put it off. And then, -when I didn’t hear from Janet, I thought I would -wait. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Why? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You see I didn’t know whether she was coming. -And if she didn’t come, of course there was no -necessity for telling Hugo anything about it. -I’m afraid he’ll be very angry. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -At any rate, you must tell him now. The sooner -the better. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(meekly)_ - -Very well, Harriet. If you think so. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -You had better go up to him at once. - -[_Mrs. De Mullin goes to the door on the left, -opens it, then draws back hastily_. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Here _is_ Hugo. He’s just coming across the -hall. With Hester. How unlucky. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON I don’t see that it matters. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I’d rather not have told him before Hester. - -[_Mrs. Clouston shrugs her shoulders. A moment -later Hugo enters. He leans on a stick and -Hester’s arm. He looks weak and pale and -altogether extremely sorry for himself, -obviously a nervous and a very tiresome -patient._ - - - -HESTER - -Carefully, father. That’s right. Will you lie on -the sofa? - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(fretfully)_ - -No. Put me in the armchair. I’m tired of lying -down. - - - -HESTER - -Very well. Let me help you. There. Wait a -moment. I’ll fetch you some pillows. - -_[Props him up on pillows in an armchair._ - - - -DE MULLIN - -Thank you. - -_[Lies back exhausted and closes his eyes._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(going to him)_ - -How are you feeling now, Hugo? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Very weak. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I wonder if you ought to have come down? - - - -DE MULLIN - -It won’t make any difference. Nothing will make -any difference any more, Jane. I shan’t last -much longer. I’m worn out. - - - -HESTER - -Father! - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes, Hester. Worn out _(with a sort of -melancholy pride)_. None of the De Mullins have -been strong. I’m the last of them. The last of -the De Mullins. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Come, Hugo, you mustn’t talk in that morbid way. - - - -DE MULLIN - -I’m not morbid, Harriet. But I feel tired, -tired. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You’ll be better in a day or two. - - - -DE MULLIN - -No, Jane. I shall never be better. Never in -_this_ world _(pause)._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(nervously)_ - -Hugo... there’s something... something I have to -tell you.... - - - -DE MULLIN - -What is it, Jane? _(fretfully)_. What have you -been keeping from me? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I ought to have told you before. Only I didn’t -like... - - - -DE MULLIN - -Is it something about my illness? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Oh no, Hugo. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(relieved)_ - -I thought Dr. Rolt might have said something. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -It’s nothing of that kind. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(peevishly)_ - -Well, well, what is it? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Hugo, some one is coming here to-day, to see -_you_. - - - -DE MULLIN - -To see _me?_ Who? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You won’t be angry, Hugo? - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(testily)_ - -How can I possibly say that, Jane, when I don’t -know who it is? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Hugo, it’s... (Bell rings loudly.) Harriet, -there’s the bell! I wonder if it’s she? Do you -think it is? - -[_All look towards the door on the right, -expectantly._ - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(querulously)_ - -Well, Jane? _Am_ I to hear who this visitor is -or am I not? - - - -ELLEN - -_(showing in a lady leading a little boy -by the hand)_ - - - -MRS. SEAGRAVE - -[_Enter Janet and Johnny!. Janet is a very -handsome woman of six-and-thirty. She is -admirably dressed, but her clothes are quiet and -in excellent taste, dark in colour and plain -in cut but expensive. Her hat is particularly -tasteful, but also quiet. Her clothes are in -marked contrast to those of her mother and -sister which are of the homeliest description -and were probably made in the village. Johnny -is a well-grown youngster of eight in a sailor -suit._ - - - -HESTER - -_(shocked)_ - -Mother! - - - -DE MULLIN - -Janet, my dear! _(cry of welcome)_. - - - -JANET - -Father! _(Drops Johnny’s hand, comes rapidly -to him, falls on one knee and kisses him -impulsively, patting his left hand with her -right.)_ How are you? Better? _(holding out her -left hand to her mother but still kneeling)_. -How do you do, mother dear? _(Mrs. De Mullin -takes it. Puts her other hand on Janet’s -shoulder.)_ I should have come before, father, -directly you sent for me. But your telegram was -delayed. I was away from home. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(nods)_ - -I see. - - - -JANET - -Have you been very ill, father? And did you -frighten them all dreadfully? How naughty of -you! - - - -DE MULLIN - -Silly Janet! Let me look at you, my dear. -_(Looks at her face as she holds it up.)_ You’re -not much changed, Janet. - - - -JANET - -Nor are you, father. - - - -DE MULLIN - -A little greyer, perhaps. - - - -JANET - -No! Not a hair! - - - -DE MULLIN - -Well, my dear, Pm glad you’ve come. We parted -in anger, but that’s all over now. Forgotten and -forgiven. Eh? - - - -JANET - -Yes. Forgotten and forgiven _(rises)_. How -are _you_, Aunt Harriet? I didn’t see you. -_(Eagerly)_ Hester! - -_[Goes to her impulsively, holding out her hand. -Hester takes it coldly. Janet tries to draw her -towards her. Hester resists. She drops her hand -and Hester turns away.]_ - - - -DE MULLIN - -Who is that? _(pointing to Johnny)_. - - - -JANET - -(turning to him) - -That is Johnny. My son. - - - -DE MULLIN - -My grandson? - - - -JANET - -Yes. I _had_ to bring him, father. We were away -from home and there was no one to leave him -with. - - - -DE MULLIN - -I’m glad you brought him. Come here, Johnny. -Don’t be afraid. - - - -JOHNNY - -_(in his confident treble)_ - -I’m not afraid. Why should I be afraid? - -_[Goes to him_. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(taking his hand)_ - -Say “How do you do, grandfather.” - - - -JOHNNY - -How do you do, grandfather? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Will you give me a kiss, Johnny? - - - -JOHNNY - -If you like, grandfather. - -_[Kisses him._ - - - -DE MULLIN - -That’s a good boy. - - - -JANET - -Kiss your grandmother too, Johnny. - -_[Mrs. De Mullin snatches him up and kisses him -passionately. Then holds him a little way off -and looks at him admiringly._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -What a fine little fellow, Janet! - - - -JANET - -_(proudly)_ - -Isn’t he, mother? And so strong and healthy! -He’s hardly had a day’s illness since he was -born. - - - -JOHNNY - -_(who has been staring at the pictures -on the walls, holding his grandmother by one -hand)_. - -Who are all these old men, grandfather? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Your ancestors, my boy. - - - -JOHNNY - -What’s ancestors? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Your forefathers. Your mother’s forefathers, - - - -JOHNNY - -Is that old man in the wig an ancestor? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes. That is Anthony De Mullin, your -great-great-grandfather. - - - -JOHNNY - -What was _he?_ - - - -DE MULLIN - -(puzzled) - -_What_ was he? I don’t know that he was anything -in particular. He was just a gentleman. - - - -JOHNNY - -_(disappointed)_ - -Is that all? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Don’t make any mistake, my boy. It’s a great -thing to be descended from gentle-people, a -thing to be proud of and to be thankful for. - - - -JOHNNY - -Mother says the great thing is for every one to -be of some use in the world. Are gentle-people -of more use in the world than other people, -grandfather? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Certainly. - - - -JOHNNY - -And were all these old men gentle-people? - - - -DE MULLIN - -All of them. And you must grow up like them. - - - -JOHNNY - -They’re very _ugly_, grandfather _(pause)_. What -did they do? - - - -DE MULLIN - -They lived down here at Brendon. - - - -JOHNNY - -Nothing else? - - - -DE MULLIN - -They looked after their land. - - - -JOHNNY - -Had they much land? - - - -DE MULLIN - -A great deal. At one time the De Mullins owned -all the land about here. - - - -JOHNNY - -How much do they own now? - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(sighs)_ - -Not very much, I’m afraid. - - - -JOHNNY - -Then they can’t have looked after it very well, -can they, grandfather? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(feeling the strain of this -conversation)_ - -Now, Hugo, do you think you ought to talk any -more? Why not go upstairs for a little and lie -down? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Perhaps I will, Jane. I _am_ a little tired. - - - -HESTER - -Shall I go with father? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -No. I will. Come, Hugo _(helps him up)_. - - - -DE MULLIN - -Will you come, with me, Johnny? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(hastily)_ - -No, Hugo. He will only disturb you. Stay down -here, Johnny, with your mother. Now then. -Carefully. - -_[Leads De Mullin off by the door on the left. -There is a pause, during which the remaining -occupants of the room obviously have nothing in -particular to say to each other. At last Mrs. -Clouston speaks._ - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Well, Janet, how have you been all these years? - - - -JANET - -_(nonchalantly)_ - -All right, Aunt Harriet. And you? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Pretty well, thanks. - - - -JANET - -Are you still living down at Bath? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Yes. You live in London, Jane tells me. - - - -JANET - -Yes. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -What do you do there? Teach? - - - -JANET - -Oh no. Why should I be teaching? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Jane said you wanted to teach at one time. - - - -JANET - -That was years ago. Before I left Brendon. soon -gave up that idea. No. I keep a shop. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -A shop! - - - -JANET - -Yes. A hat-shop - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Good heavens! A De Mullin in a hat-shop! - - - -JANET - -_(a little maliciously)_ - -Not a De Mullin, Aunt Harriet. A Seagrave. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Did Mr. Seagrave keep a hat-shop? - - - -JANET - -Mr. Seagrave?... oh, I see. No. It’s not a man’s -hat shop. It’s a lady’s _(takes off hat)_. This -is one of ours. What do you think of it, Hester? - - - -HESTER - -_(frostily)_ - -It looks very expensive. - - - -JANET - -_(looking at it critically)_ - -Yes, I own I’m rather pleased with it. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(acidly)_ - -You seem to be able to dress very well -altogether, in spite of the shop. - - - -JANET - -_(correcting her)_ - -Because of it, Aunt Harriet. That’s the -advantage of being what is called “in trade.” - If I were a school teacher or a governess or -something genteel of that kind I could only -afford to dress like a pauper. But as I keep -a shop I can dress like a lady. Clothes are a -question of money, after all, aren’t they? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(contemptuously)_ - -If one is in a shop it doesn’t matter how one -dresses. - - - -JANET - -On the contrary if one is in a shop it matters a -great deal. A girl in a shop _must_ dress well. -The business demands it. If you ever start a -hat-shop, Aunt Harriet, you’ll have to dress -very differently. Otherwise nobody will buy your -hats. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Indeed? Fortunately I’ve no intention of -starting a shop of any kind. - - - -JANET - -_(blandly)_ - -No! Well, I expect you’re wise. I doubt if you’d -make a success of it. - -[_Loud ring heard off._ - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(rather flustered--gasps)_ - - - -HESTER - -I hope that’s not a visitor. _(Janet -stares Then laughs good-humouredly. Aunt -Harriet’s nervous desire to keep her out of the -way of visitors strikes her as amusing.)_ What -are you laughing at, Janet? - - - -JANET - -_(shrugs)_ - -Nothing, Aunt Harriet. - - - -ELLEN - -_(showing in)_ - -Miss Deanes. Mr. Brown. - -[_Miss Deanes is a bulky, red-faced, -shortsighted woman of forty-two, very fussy and -absurd in manner, who talks very fast. Brown -carries a book._ - - - -MISS DEANES - -How do you do, Mrs. Clouston. _Such_ a piece of -news! I felt I _must_ tell you. I brought Mr. -Brown with me. He was just leaving a book for -you, Hester, so I made him come in. - -[_Shakes hands with Hester._ - - - -BROWN - -Here it is, Miss De Mullin. It’s the one you -wanted to borrow. _Blore on the Creeds_. - - - -HESTER - -Thank you. - - - -MISS DEANES - -_(seeing Janet for first time)_ - -Janet! Is that you? - - - -JANET - -Yes, Miss Deanes. How are you? - -[_Shakes hands._ - - - -MISS DEANES - -Good gracious, child, when did you come? Why, -you’ve not been down to Brendon for years. - - - -JANET - -It is a long time, isn’t it? - - - -MISS DEANES - -And who is this young gentleman? - -[_Noticing Johnny who is holding Janet’s hand -and staring at Miss Deanes._ - - - -JANET - -_(calmly)_ - -That is my son. Shake hands with Miss Deanes, -Johnny. - - - -MISS DEANES - -_(astonished)_ - -Your son! There now! And I never knew you were -even married! - - - -JANET - -_(quite at her ease)_ - -Didn’t you! - - - -MISS DEANES - -No. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(nervously)_ - -I forgot. I haven’t introduced you. Mr. -Brown--Mrs. Seagrave. - - - -BROWN - -_(bows)_ - -How do you do. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(turning to Miss Deanes again)_ - -And now what is your piece of news, Miss Deanes? - - - -MISS DEANES - -_(volubly)_ - -Oh yes. I _must_ tell you. You’d never guess. -Somebody _else_ is engaged to be married, _(to -Janet)_ Who do you think? - - - -JANET - -I’ve no idea. - - - -MISS DEANES - -Bertha Aldenham--to Mr. Bulstead. - - - -JANET - -_(starts)_ - -Mr. Bulstead? - - - -MISS DEANES - -Yes. But I forgot. _You_ wouldn’t know _them_. -They didn’t come here till long after you went -away. They bought Brendon Park from the Malcolms -three years ago. You remember the Malcolms, -Janet? Janet _(whose attention has wandered)_ - -Eh? Oh yes, of course. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Which Mr. Bulstead is it? The eldest? - - - -MISS DEANES - -Yes. Montague. - - - -JANET - -_(under her breath)_ - -Monty Bulstead! Engaged! - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Are the Aldenhams pleased? - - - -MISS DEANES - -Very, I expect. The Bulsteads are so rich, you -see. - - - -JANET - -Does he live down here; this Mr. Montagu -Bulstead, I mean? - - - -MISS DEANES - -Oh no. He’s here on leave. He’s in the army. He -only got back three months ago _(with a little -giggle)_. He and Bertha haven’t taken long to -settle things, have they? - - - -JANET - -No, they haven’t taken long. - - - -MISS DEANES - -But I dare say he _will_ live here when he’s -married. As the Bulsteads are so rich.- The -father makes frilling and lace and so on. All -those things people used to make so much better -by hand. And Bertha may not care about army -life. I know I shouldn’t. _(Janet smiles -discreetly.)_ It’s not always very _nice_, is -it? - - - -BROWN - -_(to Johnny who has been staring at -him roundeyed across the room, with heavy -geniality)_. - -Well, young man. Who are you staring at, eh? Do -_you_ want to talk to me? - - - -JOHNNY - -_(quite simply, in his high piping -treble)_ - -No, thank you. - - - -JANET - -Sh! Johnny! You don’t mean that. Go to Mr. Brown -when he speaks to you. - - - -JOHNNY - -Very well, Mummie. - -_[Does so slowly_. - - - -BROWN - -_(taking his hands)_ - -Now then what shall we talk about, you and I? - - - -JOHNNY - -I don’t know. - - - -BROWN - -Don’t you? Suppose we see if you can say your -catechism then? Would you like _that_? - - - -JOHNNY - -What’s catechism? - - - -BROWN - -Come, Johnny, I’m sure your mother has taught -you your catechism.. Can you repeat your “Duty -towards your Neighbour”? _(Johnny shakes his -head emphatically)_. Try “My duty towards my -neighbour.... - - - -JOHNNY - -Mother says it’s every one’s duty to be healthy -and to be happy! Is that what you mean? - - - -BROWN - -_(scandalized)_ - -No! No! - - - -JOHNNY - -Well, that’s what mother taught me. - - - -JANET - -_(coming to the rescue)_ - -I’m afraid he doesn’t know his catechism yet, -Mr. Brown. You see he’s only eight. _(Brown bows -stiffly.)_ Run away, Johnny, and play in the -garden for a little. - -_[Leads him to the door in the bay._ - - - -JOHNNY - -All right, Mummie. - -_[Johnny runs out into the garden. A certain -relief is perceptible on his departure. It is -felt that his interview with Mr. Brown has not -been a success._... - - - -MISS DEANES - -_(who feels that a change of subject -will be only tactful)_ - -There now, Hester! I do believe you’ve never -asked after Dicky! He’ll be so offended! - - - -HESTER - -_(smiling)_ - -Has Dicky been ill again? I thought you said he -was better yesterday. - - - -MISS DEANES - -He was. But he had a relapse, poor _darling_. I -had to sit up all last night with him! - - - -JANET - -What has been the matter with him? - - - -MISS DEANES - -Some sort of chill, Dr. Rolt said. I was -_dreadfully_ anxious. - - - -JANET - -What a pity! ‘Colds are such troublesome things -for children. - - - -MISS DEANES - -(puzzled) - -Children? - - - -JANET - -Yes. You were speaking of a child, weren’t you? -Miss Deanes - -Oh no. Dicky is my _cockatoo_. He’s the -_sweetest_ bird. Talks quite like a human being. -And never a coarse expression. That’s so unusual -with cockatoos. - - - -JANET - -Indeed? - - - -MISS DEANES - -Yes. The voyage, you see. They come all the way -from South America and generally they pick up -the most dreadful language, poor lambs--from the -sailors. - -But Dicky didn’t. He has such a pure mind -_(rising)_. And now I really must be going. I -have all kinds of people I want to tell about -Mr. Bulstead’s engagement. - -_[Shaking hands with Mrs. Clouston and Janet._ - - - -BROWN - -I must be off too. Wait one moment, Miss Deanes. -Good-bye, Mrs. Clouston. - -_[Shakes hands with Mrs. Clouston and bows -stiffly to Janet. He has not yet forgiven Johnny -for not knowing his catechism._ - -_(To Hester.)_ - -Good-bye, Miss De Mullin. Shall I see you at -Evensong? - -_[Shakes hands with Hester._ - -I expect so. - - - -HESTER - -Poof! - -_[Brown and Miss Deanes go out._ - - - -JANET - -What a fool Miss Deanes is! - - - -MRS CLOUSTON - -_(indifferently)_ - -She always was, wasn’t she? - - - -JANET - -I suppose so. Going on in that way about her -ridiculous cockatoo! And that _hideous_ little -curate! - - - -HESTER - -I don’t see why you should sneer at all my -friends. - - - -JANET - -Are they your friends, Hester? Then I won’t -sneer at them. But you can’t call Mr. Brown -_handsome_, can you? - - - -HESTER - -Mr. Brown is a very good man and works very -hard among the poor. That’s better than being -handsome. - - - -JANET - -Yes. But less agreeable, isn’t it? However, -if _you_ like him there’s an end of it. But he -needn’t have begun asking Johnny his catechism -the very first time he met him. I don’t call it -good manners, - - - -HESTER - -How was he to know the poor child was being -brought up to be a little heathen? - -_[Takes up her hat and cape and begins putting -them on._ - - - -JANET - -_(shrugs)_ - -How, indeed! - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Are you going out, Hester? Lunch will be ready -in half an hour. . - - - -HESTER - -Only to take Mrs. Wason her soup, Aunt Harriet. - - - -JANET - -_(looking curiously at Hester)_ - -Do you want to marry Mr. Brown, Hester? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -My dear Janet! - - - -JANET - -Well, Aunt Harriet, there’s nothing to be -ashamed of if she does. Do you, Hester? - - - -HESTER - -Why do you ask such a question? - - - -JANET - -Never mind. Only answer it _(pause)_. You do -like him, don’t you? - - - -HESTER - -I’ve a great respect for Mr. Brown. - - - -JANET - -Don’t blush, my dear. I dare say that’s much the -same thing. - - - -HESTER - -I won’t talk to you about it. You only sneer. -Janet - -I wasn’t sneering. Come, Hester, don’t be cross. -Why shouldn’t we be friends? I might help you. - - - -HESTER - -How could _you_ help me? - - - -JANET - -_(looking quizzically at poor Hester’s -headgear)_ - -I might make you a hat, my dear. - - - -HESTER - -Mr. Brown doesn’t notice those things. - - - -JANET - -All men notice those things, Hester. - - - -HESTER - -_(with a sneer)_ - -I suppose that’s why _you_ wear such fine -clothes. - - - -JANET - -_(quite good-humoured)_ - -That’s it. Fine feathers make fine birds. - - - -HESTER - -Well, _I_ call it shameless. - - - -JANET - -My dear Hester, you’re always being ashamed of -things. You always were, I remember. What is -there to be ashamed of in that? What on earth -were women given pretty faces and pretty figures -for if not to make men admire them and want to -marry them? - - - -HESTER - -_(acidly)_ - -Well, _your_ plan hasn’t been very successful so -far, anyhow! - - - -JANET - -_(quietly)_ - -Nor has yours, Hester. - -[_Hester makes exclamation of impatience and -seems about to reply angrily. Then thinks better -of it and goes out without a word. Janet follows -her retreat with her eyes and smiles half -cynically, half compassionately. The Curtain -falls._ - - - - - -ACT II - - -_Scene:_ On the edge of Brendon Forest. - -_Time:_ three days later. A road runs along the -hack of the stage front which it is separated by -a fence and high hedge. In this hut somewhat to -the right is a stile and also a gate. Round the -trunk of a large tree to the left is a rough -wooden seat. The stage is empty when the curtain -rises. Fhen enter Mrs. De Mullin, Janet and -Johnny. They approach stile from the left and -come through gate. There isan exit on the right -of the stage through the Forest. - - - -JANET - -I don’t think I’ll come any farther, mother. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You won’t come up to the house? - - - -JANET - -No, thanks _(rather grimly)_. I don’t want to -see Mrs. Bulstead. And I’m sure Mrs. Bulstead -doesn’t want to see me. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I wish Hester could have come. - - - -JANET - -Why couldn’t she? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She’s at the church putting up the decorations. -It’s the Harvest Thanksgiving to-morrow. - - - -JANET - -_(laughing)_ - -Mr. Brown! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet, I told you you weren’t to laugh at Hester -about Mr. Brown. It’s not kind. - - - -JANET - -_(lightly)_ - -It’s all right mother. Hester’s not here. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Still, I don’t like it, dear. It’s not quite... - - - -JANET - -_(soothing her)_ - -Not quite _nice_. I know, mother. Not the way -really refined and ladylike young women talk. -But I’m only quite a common person who sells -hats. You can’t expect all these refinements -from _me!_ - -[_Mrs. De Mullin sighs._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Are you going to turn back? - - - -JANET - -Not at once. I’ll wait for you here a little -with Johnny in case they’re out. Why, they’ve -put a seat here. [_She sits on the side farthest -from the road._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Usen’t there to be one? - - - -JANET - -No. Nor a gate in my time. Only a stile. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Very likely, dear. I don’t remember. I don’t -often come this way. - - - -JANET - -_(nods)_ - -I often used to come along it in the old days. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I dare say. Well, I must be getting on to my -call or I shall be late. You’re sure you won’t -come? - - - -JANET - -Quite, mother. Good-bye. - -[_Mrs. De Mullin goes of through the forest._ - - - -JOHNNY - -Where’s grandmother going, Mummie? - - - -JANET - -Up to the big house. - - - -JOHNNY - -What big house? - - - -JANET - -Brendon Park. - - - -JOHNNY - -Mayn’t I go up to the big house too? - - - -JANET - -No, dear. You’re to stay with mother. - - - -JOHNNY - -Who lives at the big house? - - - -JANET - -Nobody you know, dear. - - - -JOHNNY - -That’s why I asked, Mummie. - - - -JANET - -Well, don’t ask any more, sonny. Mother’s rather -tired. Run away and play, there’s a good boy. - -_[Kisses him._ - - - -JOHNNY - -Very well, Mummie. - -_[Johnny disappears into the wood. Janet falls -into a brown study. Presently a footstep is -heard coming along the roady but she seems to -notice nothing. Then a young man climbs over the -stile. He starts as he sees her and draws back, -then advances eagerly, holding out his hand._ - - - -MONTY - -Janet, is that _you!_ - - - -JANET - -_(smiling)_ - -Yes, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -_(astonished)_ - - - -JANET! Here! - - - -JANET - -Yes, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -_(nodding over his shoulder)_ - -_Our_ stile, Janet! - - - -JANET - -Our stile. - - - -MONTY - -_(nods)_ - -The stile where you and I first met. - - - -JANET - -_(relapsing for a moment into something -like sentiment)_ - -Yes. I thought I must see it again--for the sake -of old times. - - - -MONTY - -How long ago it all seems! - - - -JANET - -_(matter of fact)_ - -It is a longish time, you know. - - - -MONTY - -_(thoughtfully)_ - -I believe that was the happiest month of my -life, Janet. - - - -JANET - -Was it, Monty? - - - -MONTY - -Yes _(pause)_. I say, when did you come down? -You don’t _live_ at home any longer, do you? - - - -JANET - -No. I only came down three days ago. - - - -MONTY - -By Jove it _is_ good to see you again. Why, it’s -eight years since we used to be together, you -and I. - - - -JANET - -Nearly nine. - - - -MONTY - -Yes... You’re not coming to live down here -again, are you? - - - -JANET - -No; why? - - - -MONTY - -I thought perhaps... - - - -JANET - -_(cynically)_ - -Would you dislike it very much if I did, Monty? - - - -MONTY - -Of course not. - - - -JANET - -Confess. You _did_ feel it would be rather -awkward? - - - -MONTY - -Well, of course... - - - -JANET - -However you can set your mind at rest. I’m not. -[_His relief at this intelligence enables him to -realize the pleasure he is getting from seeing -her again._) - - - -MONTY - -I say, Janet, how well you’re looking! I believe -you’re handsomer than ever. - - - -JANET - -(smiling) - -Am I? - - - -MONTY - -You know you are. - -[_Pause. He looks at her admiringly. She turns -away with a little smile._ - - - -JANET - -_(feeling that they are getting on to -dangerous ground)_ - -Well, Monty. Where have you been these eight -years? - - - -MONTY - -Abroad with my regiment. We’ve been ordered -all over the place. I’ve been home on leave, of -course. But not for the last three years. Not -since father bought the Park. I’ve never been at -Brendon since ... _(pause)_. - - - -JANET - -Since we were here? Don’t blush, Monty. _(He -nods shamefacedly.)_ How did he come to buy the -place? - - - -MONTY - -It was just a chance. He saw it advertised, came -and looked at it and bought it. He’s no idea -I was ever at Brendon before _(rather bitter -laugh)_. None of them have. I have to pretend -not to know my way about. - - - -JANET - -Why? - - - -MONTY - -It seems safer. _(Janet nods.)_ Sometimes I -almost forget to keep it up. I’m such a duffer -about things. But I’ve managed hitherto. And -now, of course, it’s all right as I’ve been -here three months. I may be supposed to know the -beastly place by this time. - - - -JANET - -Beastly? You’re not very polite. - -[_Monty laughs shamefacedly_. - - - -MONTY - -You got my note, didn’t you? - - - -JANET - -What note?... Oh, eight years ago, you mean? -Yes. - - - -MONTY - -I left it with the woman at the lodgings. As you -were coming over that afternoon, I thought it -safer than sending a message. And of course I -daren’t telegraph. _(Janet nods.)_ I was awfully -sick at having to go away like that. All in a -moment. Without even saying good-bye. But I had -to. - - - -JANET - -Of course. Was your mother badly hurt? - - - -MONTY - -No. Only stunned. That was such rot. If people -get chucked out of a carriage they must expect -to get stunned. But of course they couldn’t -know. The telegram just said “Mother hurt. -Carriage accident. Come at once.” It got to me -at the lodgings a couple of hours before you -were coming. I had just time to chuck my things -into a bag and catch the train. I wanted to come -back after the mater was all right again. But I -couldn’t very well, could I? - - - -JANET - -Why not? - - - -MONTY - -Well, the regiment was to sail in less than -three weeks and the mater would have thought it -rather rough if I’d gone away again. I’d been -away six weeks as it was. - - - -JANET - -Oh yes. Of course. - - - -MONTY - -_(with half a sigh)_ - -To think if I hadn’t happened to be riding along -that road and seen you at the stile and asked -my way, you and I might never have met. What a -chance life is! - - - -JANET - -_(nods)_ - -Just a chance _(pause)_. - - - -MONTY - -Why did you go away, Janet? You weren’t going -the last time I saw you. - - - -JANET - -Wasn’t I? - - - -MONTY - -No. At least you said nothing about it. - - - -JANET - -I didn’t know I was going then. Not for certain. - - - -MONTY - -Why _did_ you go? - - - -JANET - -_(quietly)_ I had to, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -_(puzzled)_ - -You had to? _(Janet nods.)_But why? - -Mother found out. - - - -MONTY - -About us? - - - -JANET - -Yes. And she told father. - - - -MONTY - -_(genuinely distressed)_ Oh, Janet! I’m so -sorry. - - - -JANET - -_(shrugs)_ - -It couldn’t be helped, - - - -MONTY - -Does he know who it was? - - - -JANET - -Who _you_ were? No. - - - -MONTY - -You didn’t tell him? - - - -JANET - - - -MONTY! As if I should. - - - -MONTY - -I don’t know. Girls generally do. - - - -JANET - -_I_ didn’t. - - - -MONTY - -No. I suppose you wouldn’t. But you’re different -from most girls. Do you know there was always -something rather splendid about you, Janet? - - - -JANET - -(curtseys) - -Thank you. - - - -MONTY - -I wonder he didn’t _make_ you tell. - - - -JANET - -He did try of course. That was why I ran away. - - - -MONTY - -I see. Where did you go to? - - - -JANET - -London. - - - -MONTY - -To London? All alone? (Janet nods) Why did you -do that? And why didn’t you let me know? - - - -JANET - -_(shrugs)_ - -You were out of England by that time. - - - -MONTY - -But why London? - - - -JANET - -I had to go somewhere. And it seemed better -to go where I shouldn’t be known. Besides it’s -easier to be lost sight of in a crowd. - - - -MONTY - -But what did you do when you got there? - - - -JANET - -_(calmly)_ - -I got a place in a shop, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -A shop? You! - - - -JANET - -Yes, a hat-shop, in Regent Street. My dear -Monty, don’t gape like that. Hat-shops are -perfectly respectable places. Almost too -respectable to judge by the fuss two of them -made about employing _me_. - - - -MONTY - -What do you mean? - - - -JANET - -Well, when I applied to them for work they -naturally asked if I had ever worked in a -hat-shop before. And when I said “No” they -naturally asked why I wanted to begin. In the -innocence of my heart I told them. Whereupon -they at once refused to employ me--not in the -politest terms. - - - -MONTY - -Poor Janet. What beastly luck! Still... - -[_Hesitates._ - - - -JANET - -Yes, Monty? - - - -MONTY - -I mean naturally they couldn’t be expected... - -_(flustered)_ - -At least I don’t mean that exactly. - -Only... [_Stops._ - - - -JANET - -My dear Monty, I quite understand what you mean. -You needn’t trouble to be explicit. Naturally -they couldn’t be expected to employ an abandoned -person like me to trim hats. That was exactly -their view. - - - -MONTY - -But I thought you said you _did_ get a place in -a shop? Janet - -Yes. But not at either of _those_ shops. They -were _far_ too virtuous. - - - -MONTY - -How did you do it? - - - -JANET - -Told lies, Monty. I believe that’s how most -women get employment. - - - -MONTY - -Told lies? - - - -JANET - -Yes. I invented a husband, recently deceased, -bought several yards of crêpe and a wedding -ring. This is the ring. - -[_Takes off glove._ - - - -MONTY - -Oh, Janet, how beastly for you! - -[_Janet shrugs_. - - - -JANET - -_(laughing)_ - -Everything seems to be “Beastly” to you, Monty. -Brendon and telling lies and lots of other -things. Luckily I’m less superfine. - - - -MONTY - -Didn’t they find out? - - - -JANET - -No. That was why I decided to be a widow. It -made inquiries more difficult. - - - -MONTY - -I should have thought it made them easier. - - - -JANET - -On the contrary. You can’t cross-question a -widow about a recent bereavement. If you do she -cries. I always used to look tearful directly my -husband’s name was even mentioned. So they gave -up mentioning it. Women are so boring when they -will cry. - - - -MONTY - -They might have inquired from other people. - - - -JANET - -Why should they? Besides there was no one to -inquire from. I called him Seagrave--and drowned -him at sea. You can’t ask questions of the -sharks. - - - -MONTY - -Oh, Janet, how can you joke about it? - - - -JANET - -I couldn’t--then. I wanted work-too badly. But I -can now--with your kind permission, I mean. - - - -MONTY - -And you’ve been at the shop ever since? - - - -JANET - -Not _that_ shop. I was only there about six -months --till baby was born, in fact... - - - -MONTY - -_(horrified)_ - -Janet, there was a baby! - - - -JANET - -Of course there was a baby. - - - -MONTY - -Oh, Janet! And you never wrote! Why didn’t you -write? - - - -JANET - -I did think of it. But on the whole I thought I -wouldn’t. It would have been no good. - - - -MONTY - -No good? - - - -JANET - -You were in India. - - - -MONTY - -I was in England. - - - -JANET - -Not then. - - - -MONTY - -You ought to have written at once--directly your -mother found out. - - - -JANET - -One week after you sailed, Monty _(defiantly)_. -Besides why should I write? - - - -MONTY - -Why? I could have married you, of course. - - - -JANET - -If I’d asked you, you mean? Thank you, my dear -Monty. - - - -MONTY - -No, I don’t. Of course I should have married -you. I _must_ have married you. - - - -JANET - -_(looking at him thoughtfully)_ - -I wonder if you would. - - - -MONTY - -Certainly I should. I should have been bound in -honour. - - - -JANET - -I see. Then I’m glad I never wrote. - - - -MONTY - -You’re _glad?_ Now? - - - -JANET - -Yes. I’ve done some foolish things in my life, -Monty, but none quite so foolish as that. To -marry a schoolboy, not because he loves you or -wants to marry you but because he thinks he’s -“bound in honour.” No, thank you. - - - -MONTY - -I don’t mean that. You know I don’t, Janet. I -loved you, of course. That goes without saying. -I’d have married you like a shot before, only -the Governor would have made such a fuss. The -Governor was so awfully straitlaced about this -sort of thing. When I was sent away from Eton he -made the most ghastly fuss. - - - -JANET - -Were you sent away from Eton for “this sort of -thing”? - - - -MONTY - -Yes--at least I don’t mean that either. But it -was about a girl there. He was frightfully wild. -He threatened to cut me off if I ever did such -a thing again. Such rot! As if no one had ever -been sent away from school before! - - - -JANET - -_(reflectively)_ - -I didn’t know you’d been sent away from Eton. - - - -MONTY - -Didn’t you? I suppose I didn’t like to tell -you-for fear of what you’d think _(bitterly)_. I -seem to have been afraid of everything in those -days. . - - - -JANET - -Not _everything_, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -Oh, you know what I mean. I was awfully afraid -of the Governor, I remember. I suppose all boys -are if their parents rag them too much. But I -would have married you, Janet, if I’d known. I -would honestly. - - - -JANET - -_(blandly)_ - -What is the pay of a British subaltern, Monty? - - - -MONTY - -The Governor would have had to stump up, of -course. - - - -JANET - -Poor Mr. Bulstead! He’d have _liked_ that, -I suppose? And what about your poor unhappy -colonel? And all the other little subalterns? - - - -MONTY - -_(obstinately)_ - -Still, you ought to have written. - - - -JANET - -_(quietly)_ - -_You_ never wrote. - - - -MONTY - -I couldn’t. You know that. You never would let -me. That was why I couldn’t send that note to -you to tell you I was going away. You said my -letters would be noticed. - - - -JANET - -Yes, I forgot that. That’s the result of having -a father who is what is called old-fashioned. - - - -MONTY - -What do you mean? - - - -JANET - -All letters to the Manor House are delivered -locked in a bag. They always have been since -the Flood, I believe, or at least since the -invention of the postal service. And, of course, -father won’t have it altered, So every morning -there’s the ritual of unlocking this absurd bag. -No one is allowed to do that but father--unless -he is ill. Then mother has the privilege. And -of course he. scrutinizes the outside of every -letter and directly it’s opened asks who it’s -from and what’s inside it. Your letters would -have been noticed at once. - - - -MONTY - -How beastly! - - - -JANET - -The penalty of having nothing to do, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -I know. What a mess the whole thing is! - - - -JANET - -Just so. No. There was no way out of it except -the hat-shop. - - - -MONTY - -_(remorsefully)_ - -It’s awfully rough on you, Janet. - - - -JANET - -Never mind. I dare say I wasn’t cut out for -the wife of a subaltern, Monty; whereas I make -excellent hats. - - - -MONTY - -_(savagely)_ - -You’re still making the d------d things? - - - -JANET - -Yes. Only at another shop. The Regent Street -place had no room for me when I was well enough -to go back to work. But the woman who kept it -gave me a recommendation to a friend who was -starting in Hanover Street. A most superior -quarter for a hatshop, Monty. In fact _the_ -superior quarter. Claude et Cie was the name. - -(Monty _(rather shocked)_ - -A _French_ shop? - - - -JANET - -No more French than you are, Monty. It was kept -by a Miss Hicks, one of the most thoroughly -British people you can possibly imagine. But we -called ourselves Claude et Cie in order to be -able to charge people more for their hats. You -can always charge fashionable women more for -their clothes if you pretend to be French. It’s -one of the imbecilities of commerce. So poor -dear Miss Hicks became Madame Claude and none of -our hats cost less than seven guineas. - - - -MONTY - -Do people buy hats at such a price? - - - -JANET - -Oh yes. Everybody in Society bought them. Claude -et Cie was quite the rage that Season. Nobody -who was anybody went anywhere else. - - - -MONTY - -She must have made a great deal of money. - - - -JANET - -On the contrary. She made nothing at all and -narrowly escaped bankruptcy. - - - -MONTY - -But I don’t understand. If her hats were so dear -and everybody bought them? - - - -JANET - -Everybody _bought_ them but nobody _paid_ for -them. In the highest social circles I believe -people never do pay for anything--certainly not -for their clothes. At least, nobody paid Miss -Hicks, and at the end of six months she was owed -£1,200 and hadn’t a penny to pay her rent. - - - -MONTY - -Why didn’t she _make_ them pay. - - - -JANET - -She did dun them, of course, but they only -ordered more hats to keep her quiet which didn’t -help Miss Hicks much. And when she went on -dunning them they said they should withdraw -their custom. In fact, she was in a dilemma. If -she let the bills run on she couldn’t pay her -rent. And if she asked her customers to pay -their bills they ceased to be customers. - - - -MONTY - -How beastly! - - - -JANET - -Not again, Monty! - - - -MONTY - -What _did_ she do? - - - -JANET - -She didn’t do anything. She was too depressed. -She used to sit in the back room where the -hats were trimmed and weep over the materials, -regardless of expense. Finally things came to a -crisis. The landlord threatened to distrain for -his rent. But just as it looked as if it was all -over with Claude et Cie a capitalist came to the -rescue. _I_ was the capitalist. - - - -MONTY - -You? - - - -JANET - -Yes. I’d an old Aunt once who was fond of me -and left me a legacy when I was seventeen. Four -hundred pounds. - - - -MONTY - -That wouldn’t go very far. - - - -JANET - -Four hundred pounds goes a longish way towards -setting up a shop. Besides, it was nearly five -hundred by that time. My shares had gone up. -Well, I and my five hundred pounds came to the -rescue. I paid the rent and the most clamorous -of the creditors, and Miss Hicks and I became -partners. - - - -MONTY - -But what was the good of that if the business -was worth nothing? - - - -JANET - -It was worth several hundred pounds to any -one, who had the pluck to sue half the British -aristocracy. I sued them. It was tremendous -fun. They were simply furious. They talked as if -they’d never been sued before! As for Miss Hicks -she wept more than ever and said I’d ruined the -business. - - - -MONTY - -Hadn’t you? - - - -JANET - -That business. Yes. But with the £1,200--or as -much of it as we could recover--we started a -new one. A cheap hat-shop. Relatively cheap that -is-for Hanover Street. We charged two guineas -a hat instead of seven, 100 per cent, profit -instead of... You can work it out for yourself. -But then our terms were strictly cash, so we -made no bad debts. That was my idea. - - - -MONTY - -But you said nobody ever paid for their hats. - - - -JANET - -Not in the highest social circles. But we drew -our customers from the middle classes who live -in South Kensington and Bayswater, and are not -too haughty to pay for a hat if they see a cheap -one. - - - -MONTY - -But wasn’t it a frightful risk? - - - -JANET - -_(cheerfully)_ - -It was a risk, of course. But everything in life -is a risk, isn’t it? And it succeeded, as I felt -sure it would. We’re quite a prosperous concern -nowadays, and I go over to Paris four times a -year to see the latest fashions. That, my dear -Monty, is the history of Claude et Cie. - -[_Pause._ - - - -MONTY - -And you’ve never married, Janet? - - - -JANET - -No. - - - -MONTY {hesitates) - -Is it because...? - - - -JANET - -Because? - - - -MONTY - -Because you still care for me? - - - -JANET - -Monty, don’t be vain. - - - -MONTY - -_(repelled)_ - -I didn’t mean it like that. Janet, don’t laugh. -Of course, I’m glad if you don’t care any more. -At least, I suppose I ought to be glad. It would -have been dreadful if you had gone on caring all -these years and I not known. But did you? - - - -JANET - -No, Monty, I didn’t. You may set your mind at -rest. - - - -MONTY - -You’re sure? - - - -JANET - -Quite. I had too many other things to think of. - - - -MONTY - -Do you mean that beastly shop? - - - -JANET - -_(quietly)_ - -I meant my baby. - - - -MONTY - -_Our_ baby. Is it alive? - - - -JANET - -Of course. What do you mean, Monty? - - - -MONTY - -I thought, as you didn’t say... _(thoughtfully)_ -Poor little beast! _(Janet makes gesture of -protest.)_ Well, it’s rough luck on the -little beggar, isn’t it? What’s become of him, -Janet? - - - -JANET - -What’s _become_ of him! My dear Monty, what -should have become of him? He’s quite alive as I -said and particularly thriving. - - - -MONTY - -Do you mean he’s _living_ with you!.. But, of -course, I forgot, you’re supposed to be married. - - - -JANET - -_(correcting him)_ - -A widow, Monty. An inconsolable widow! - - - -MONTY - -Where is he? In London? - - - -JANET - -No. As a matter of fact he’s probably not fifty -yards away. Over there. - -[_Points towards the wood._ - - - -MONTY - -_(jumping up)_ - -Janet! _(nervously looking round)_. - - - -JANET - -_(rallying him)_ - -Frightened, Monty? - - - -MONTY - -Of course not _(shamefacedly)_ - - - -JANET - -Just a little? - - - -MONTY - -_(regaining courage)_ - -Janet, let me see him. - - - -JANET - -_(amused)_ - -Would you like to? - - - -MONTY - -Of course I should. He’s _my_ baby as well as -yours if it comes to that. Do call him, Janet. - - - -JANET - -All right, _(calls)_ Johnny! _(pause)_ John... -ny! _[‘To Monty)_ You mustn’t tell him, you -know. - - - -MONTY - -Of course not. - - - -JOHNNY - -_(off r.)_ - -Yes, Mummie. - - - -JANET - -Come here for a minute. Mother wants to speak to -you. - - - -JOHNNY - -_(off)_ - -Very well, Mummie. _(Enters r.)_ Oh, Mummie, -I’ve found such a lot of rabbits. You must come -and see them. _(Seeing Monty for the first time, -stares at him.)_ Oh! - - - -MONTY - -Come here, youngster. Come and let me look -at you. _(Johnny goes to him slowly. Monty, -grasping both hands, draws him to him, looking -at him long and keenly.)_ He’s like you, Janet. - - - -JANET - -Is he? - - - -MONTY - -Yes. He has your eyes. So your name’s Johnny, -young man? - - - -JOHNNY - -Yes. - - - -MONTY - -Well, Johnny, will you give me a kiss? _(Monty -leans forward. He does so.)_ That’s right. - - - -JOHNNY - -And now, Mummie, come and look at my rabbits. - - - -JANET - -Not yet, dear. Mother’s busy just now. - - - -JOHNNY - -May I go back to them then? - - - -JANET - -Yes. - - - -MONTY - -Suppose I won’t let you go? - - - -JOHNNY - -I’ll make you--and so will Mummie. - - - -MONTY - -Plucky little chap. Off with you. - -[_Kisses him again, then releases his hands. -Johnny trots off r. again. Monty follows him -with his eyes. Pause._ - - - -JANET - -Well, Monty, what do you think of him? - - - -MONTY - -_(enthusiastic)_ - -I think he’s _splendid_. - - - -JANET - -_(proudly)_ - -Isn’t he? And such a sturdy little boy. He -weighed ten pounds before he was a month old. - -I say, Janet. - - - -MONTY - -_(shyly)_ - - - -JANET - -Yes? - - - -MONTY - -_(hesitates)_ - -You’ll let me kiss you once more, won’t you? For -the last time?... _(she hesitates)_. You don’t -mind? - - - -JANET - -_(heartily)_ . - -Of course not, Monty. You’re not _married_ yet, -you know. - - - -MONTY - - - -JANET! My dear, dear Janet! - -[_Seizes her and kisses her fiercely._ - - - -JANET - -_(releasing herself gently)_ - -That’s enough, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -_(remorsefully)_ - -I’m afraid I behaved like an awful brute to you, -Janet. - - - -JANET - -_(lightly)_ - -Oh no. - - - -MONTY - -Yes, I did. I ought to have married you. I ought -to marry you still. On account of the boy. - - - -JANET - -_(quite matter of fact)_ - -Oh well, you can’t do that now in any case, can -you --as you’re engaged to Bertha Aldenham. - - - -MONTY - -You’ve heard about that? Who told you? - - - -JANET - -A worthy lady called Miss Deanes. - - - -MONTY - -I know. A regular sickener. - - - -JANET - -My dear Monty! - - - -MONTY - -Sorry. - - - -JANET - -She brought the good news. The very day I -arrived as it happened. We’ve hardly talked of -anything else at the Manor House since--except -father’s illness, of course. - - - -MONTY - -Why? - - - -JANET - -What else is there to talk about--in Brendon? - - - -MONTY - -That’s true. Isn’t it... _(stops himself, looks -at watch. Whistles.)_ Whew! [_Rises._ - - - -JANET - -What is it, Monty? - - - -MONTY - -I say, Janet, I wonder if you’d mind going now? - -Why? - - - -JANET - -[_She rises too._ - - - -MONTY - -_(awkwardly)_ - -Well, the fact is I’m expecting some one here -directly. I... - - - -JANET - -Bertha? - - - -MONTY - -Yes. I was to meet her here at the stile at six. - - - -JANET - -_Our_ stile, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -Yes,... You don’t mind, do you--about my asking -you to go, I mean? - - - -JANET - -_(sitting again)_ - -Not in the least. - - - -MONTY - -But you’re not going? - - - -JANET - -Why should I go? - - - -MONTY - -Oh, well, I thought----- - - - -JANET - -That it wouldn’t be quite suitable for us to -meet? - - - -MONTY - -I didn’t mean that, of course. But I thought you -mightn’t like--I mean it might be painful... - -[_Sits again._ - - - -JANET - -For me to see her? On the contrary, I’m dying to -see her. - - - -MONTY - -Janet, sometimes I think you’re not quite human. - - - -JANET - -My dear boy, I’m extremely human--and therefore -curious _(pause)_. What’s she like, Monty? Now, -I mean. She promised to be pretty. - - - -MONTY - -She is pretty, I suppose _(pause)_. I wonder if -Bertha and I will ever have a son like Johnny! - - - -JANET - -Let’s hope so, Monty. For Bertha’s sake. - - - -MONTY - -Isn’t that some one coming? _(pause, listens)_, -I expect it’s she _(rising hastily and advancing -towards stile)_. Is that you, Bertha? - - - -BERTHA - -_(at stile)_ - -Oh! There you are. Yes. Isn’t it hot? _(entering -by gate which he opens for her)_. Am I punctual? -_(with a cry)_ Janet! When did you come home? - -[_Goes to her eagerly._ - - - -JANET - -_(shaking hands)_ - -Only three days ago. - -[_Bertha kisses her._ - - - -BERTHA - -_Only_ three days! And you’ve never been up to -see us. - - - -JANET - -I know. But with father ill - - - -BERTHA - -Of course. I understand. I was only joking. How -is Mr. De Mullin? - - - -JANET - -Much better. Not well yet, of course. But he -gets stronger every day. - - - -BERTHA - -I’m so glad. I say, Janet, do you remember when -you used to teach us French? - - - -JANET - -Yes. - - - -BERTHA - -I was awfully troublesome, I remember. - - - -MONTY - -I expect you were an awful duffer at it too, -Bertha. - - - -BERTHA - -What cheek! - - - -MONTY - -Wasn’t she, Ja--_(pulls himself up)_ Miss De -Mullin? - -[_Janet smiles nervously._ - -Oh, yes. - - - -BERTHA - -I didn’t know you’d met Janet, Monty? Why didn’t -you tell us? - -[_Quite unsuspicious of anything wrong. Merely -curious._ - - - -MONTY - -It was some time ago. - - - -BERTHA - -_(surprised)_ - -Not at Brendon? You’ve never been at Brendon -before. - - - -MONTY - -No. It was at Weymouth. I was there getting over -typhoid years ago. - - - -BERTHA - -I remember, you told me. Eight or nine years -ago, wasn’t it? - - - -MONTY - -Yes _(looks at watch)_. I say, Bertha, we must -be off if we’re not to be late. - - - -BERTHA - -Give me two minutes to rest. The weather’s -simply stifling. - - - -MONTY - -Rot! It’s quite cool. - - - -BERTHA - -Then you must have been sitting here a long -time. I’ve been walking along a dusty road and -I’m not going to start yet. Besides I want to -know all about you two meeting. Were you staying -at Weymouth, Janet? - - - -JANET - -Oh no. I just bicycled over. Mr. Bulstead ran -into me. - - - -MONTY - -I like that. She ran into _me_. - - - -JANET - -Anyhow my front wheel buckled and he had to help -me to put it right. - - - -BERTHA - -What gallantry! - - - -MONTY - -It was. The beastly thing took about half an -hour. By the time it was over we seemed to -have known each other for a lifetime _(looks -at watch)_. Two minutes is up. Time to start, -Bertha. - - - -BERTHA - -It isn’t. - - - -MONTY - -It is. You’ll be late for dressing to a -certainty if you don’t go. - - - -BERTHA - -I like that. I can dress as quickly as you if it -comes to that. - - - -MONTY - -Oh no. I can dress in ten minutes. I’ll give you -a quarter of an hour’s start and be down in the -drawing-room five minutes before you’re ready. -Is it a bet? - - - -BERTHA - -Done. In sixpences. _(To Janet)_ I’m staying at -the Park for a few days longer, Janet. Come up -and see me, won’t you? - - - -JANET - -_(uncomfortably)_ - -I’m afraid I can’t promise. On account of -father. - - - -BERTHA - -Well, after I’ve gone home then. Mother will -want to see you. And so will Helen. And now I -suppose I really must go. Come along, Monty. - - - -MONTY - -Not I. I needn’t go for a quarter of an hour. -You have a quarter of an hour’s start. - - - -BERTHA - -All right. Good-bye, Janet _(kisses her)_. You -won’t forget about coming as soon as you can? I -go back home on Thursday. - - - -JANET - -I won’t forget. Good-bye. [_Bertha goes off -through the wood. Janet watches her go and there -is a pause._) Yes, she _is_ pretty, Monty. Very -pretty. - - - -MONTY - -_(nods)_ - -You don’t mind? - - - -JANET - -Her being pretty? Of course not. It’s a -justification. - - - -MONTY - -A justification? - - - -JANET - -For forgetting me - - - -MONTY - -_(impulsively, seizing her hands)_ - -Janet, I’ve never done that. You know I haven’t. - - - -JANET - -_(drawing back)_ - -No, Monty. Not again. [_Pause._ - - - -MONTY - -I say, I as nearly as possible called you Janet -right out before Bertha. - - - -JANET - -So I saw. You _did_ call me Miss De Mullin, by -the way,--which wasn’t very clever of you. - - - -MONTY - -Did I? What an ass I am! But I don’t suppose she -noticed. - - - -JANET - -I dare say not. _(A shrill cry comes from the -wood on the right. Then silence. Janet starts -up.)_ What was that? - - - -MONTY - -I don’t know. - - - -JANET - -It sounded like a child. Where did it come from? -Over here, didn’t it? - - - -MONTY - -I think so. - - - -JANET - -_(alarmed)_ - -I hope Johnny... I must go and see... _(A moment -later Johnny runs in, sobbing, followed by Mrs. -De Mullin and Bertha.)_ Johnny! What is it, my -sweetheart? - -[_Runs to him._ - - - -JOHNNY - -Oh, Mummie, Mummie, I was running after the -rabbits and I tripped over some nettles and they -stung me. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -He put his foot in a hole, Janet. He fell just -as I met Bertha _(shakes hands with Monty)_. How -do you do Mr. Bulstead. - - - -JANET - -There! There! my pet. Did it hurt very much? -Mother shall kiss it and make it well. - - - -JOHNNY (sobs) - -Oh-h-h--- [_Does so._ - - - -BERTHA - -Is he your son? - - - -JANET - -Yes. Don’t cry any more, dear. Brave boys don’t -cry, you know. - - - -JOHNNY - -_(gasps)_ - -It h-hurts so. - - - -JANET - -I know. But crying won’t make it hurt less, will -it? So you must dry your eyes. Come now. - - - -JOHNNY - -All right, Mummie. - -[_Stills sobs gradually._ - - - -BERTHA - -_(astonished)_ - -I’d no idea you were married, Janet. - - - -JANET - -Hadn’t you? - - - -BERTHA - -No. When was it? - - - -JANET - -Eight years ago. Nearly nine. To Mr. Seagrave. - - - -BERTHA - -Is he down here with you? - - - -JANET - -No. My husband died soon after our marriage. - - - -BERTHA - -Poor Janet. I’m so sorry _(pause)_. And it was -before your marriage that Monty met you? - - - -JANET - -How do you know? - - - -BERTHA - -_(quite unsuspicious)_ - -He called you Miss De Mullin. - - - -JANET - -Of course. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(pricking up her ears -suspiciously at this.)_ - -I didn’t know you had met my daughter before, -Mr. Bulstead. - - - -BERTHA - -Nor did I. They met down at Weymouth quite by -chance eight or nine years ago. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(gravely)_ - -Indeed? - - - -MONTY - -Yes... I say, Bertha, excuse my interrupting -you. but we really must be off now if we’re not -to be late. - - - -BERTHA - -You want to win that bet! - - - -MONTY - -The bet’s off. There’s no time to give you any -start. I must come too or I shan’t be in time -myself and the Governor will simply curse. - - - -BERTHA - -Is Mr. Bulstead _very_ fierce if people are late -for dinner? - - - -MONTY - -Simply beastly. - - - -BERTHA - -How very unpleasant! I wonder if I’m wise to -marry into the family? - -[_Shaking hands merrily with Mrs. DeMullin and -Janet. Then goes off r., laughing merrily._ - - - -MONTY - -_(sardonically)_ - -I wonder _(shakes hands with Mrs. De Mullin and -Janet)_. Will you give me a kiss, old chap? - -[_To Johnny._ - - - -JOHNNY - -That’s three times. - -[_Monty nods._ - -[_Monty follows Bertha off r. A long pause. Mrs. -De Mullin looks fixedly at Janet. Janet looks at -the ground._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(slowly)_ - -Mr. Montague Bulstead seems unusually fond of -children, Janet. - - - -JANET - -Does he, mother? - -[_She does not look up._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yes. Johnny is rather old to be kissed by -strangers. - - - -JANET - -I supposed he kissed him because he was brave -about being stung. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -He seems to have kissed him before. Twice. - - - -JANET - -I dare say. I didn’t notice. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Johnny did, apparently. - - - -JANET - -Well, it doesn’t matter anyway, does it? _(Looks -up defiantly. Meets her mother’s eyes full on -her)_ Why do you look at me like that, mother? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Send Johnny away for a little, Janet. I want to -speak to you. - - - -JANET - -I’d rather not, mother. He might hurt himself -again. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -He will be quite safe. Run away, Johnny. But -don’t go too far. - - - -JOHNNY - -All right, grandmother. - -[_Johnny trots off into the wood. Pause._ - - - -JANET - -_(defiantly)_ - -Well, mother? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet, why did you never tell us you had met Mr. -Bulstead before? - - - -JANET - -When? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Any time during the last three days, when we -were speaking of his engagement. - - - -JANET - -I’d forgotten all about it, mother. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Indeed? And why didn’t you tell us eight years -ago, when you met him at Weymouth, when you were -still “Miss De Mullin”? - - - -JANET - -Mother, don’t badger me like this. If you want -to ask me anything ask it. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet, Mr. Bulstead is Johnny’s father. - - - -JANET - -Mr. Bulstead? Absurd! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Then why did you pretend not to have met him? -Why did you conceal the fact of your meeting -him from us eight years ago? And why has -he concealed the fact from Bertha and the -Bulsteads? - -[_Pause._ - - - -JANET - -_(resignedly)_ - -Very well, mother, if you’re determined to know -you must know. Yes, he’s Johnny’s father. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Oh, Janet! - - - -JANET - -_(irritably)_ - -Well, mother, if you didn’t want to know you -shouldn’t have asked. I told you not to -worry me. _(Mrs. De Mullin begins to cry. -Remorsefully,)_ - -There, there, mother! Don’t cry. I’m sorry I was -cross to you. Don’t let’s talk any more about -it. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(snuffling)_ - -No, Janet, we _must_ talk about it. There’s no -use trying to hide things any longer. You must -tell me the truth. - - - -JANET - -Much better not, mother. It won’t give you any -pleasure to hear. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Still, I’d rather know, Janet. - - - -JANET - -_(shrugs)_ - -As you please. What do you want me to tell you? -Mrs. De Mullin - -Everything. How did you come to be at Weymouth? -I don’t remember your staying at Weymouth eight -years ago. - - - -JANET - -I wasn’t staying there. But Monty was. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(shocked)_ - -Monty! - - - -JANET - -Mr. Bulstead. Oh, what _does_ it matter now? - -He’d had typhoid and was there to recruit. I’d -ridden over on my bicycle... - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(lamentably)_ - -Bicycle! I always said it was all through -bicycling. - - - -JANET - -_(another shrug)_ - -He ran into me, or I ran into him. I was rather -shaken, and he asked me to come in and rest. -It happened close to the house where he was -lodging. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You went in! To his lodgings! A man you had -never met before! - - - -JANET - -My dear mother, when you have been thrown off -a bicycle, ordinary conventions cease to apply. -Besides, as a matter of fact, we _had_ met once -before--the day before, in fact. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Where? - - - -JANET - -Here. By this very stile. Monty was riding past -and he asked me the way to somewhere--Thoresby, -I think. I was standing by the stile. Next day I -happened to ride into Weymouth. We collided--and -the rest you know. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(sternly)_ - -Were those the _only_ times you met him, Janet? - - - -JANET - -Of course not, mother. After the Weymouth -collision we met constantly, nearly every day. -We used to meet out riding and I had tea with -him lots of times in his rooms. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(horrified)_ - -How long did this go on? - - - -JANET - -More than a month--till he left Weymouth, in -fact. Now, mother, is that all you want to know? -Because if so we’ll drop the subject. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Oh, Janet, what _will_ your father say! - - - -JANET - -Father? He won’t know. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Won’t know? But I must tell him. - - - -JANET - -Good heavens, why? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -In order that Mr. Bulstead may marry you, of -course. Your father will insist on his marrying -you. - - - -JANET - -If father attempts to do that, mother, I shall -deny the whole story. And Monty will back me up. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -He would never be so wicked. - - - -JANET - -He would have to if I ask him. It’s the least he -could do. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Johnny is there to prove it. - - - -JANET - -There’s nothing to prove that Monty is Johnny’s -father. Nothing whatever. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -But, Janet, _why_ won’t you marry him? - - - -JANET - -_(impatiently)_ - -My dear mother, because I don’t want to, of -course. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You don’t _want_ to? - - - -JANET - -Great heavens, no. Why should I? Monty Bulstead -isn’t at all the sort of man I should care to -_marry_. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Why not? - - - -JANET - -Frankly, mother, because he’s not interesting -enough. Monty’s a very nice fellow and I like -him very much, but I don’t want to pass the -remainder of my life with him. If I’m to marry -anybody--and I don’t think I shall--it will have -to be a rather more remarkable person than Monty -Bulstead. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Yet you _did_ love him, Janet. You must have -loved him... then. - - - -JANET - -Oh yes. Then. But that was ages ago, before -Johnny was born. After that I didn’t care for -anybody any more except Johnny. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -But, Janet, you _ought_ to marry him, for -Johnny’s sake. - - - -JANET - -Too late, mother. That should have been eight -years ago to be any use. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Better too late than not at all. - - - -JANET - -Better not at all than too late. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -He seduced you, Janet. - - - -JANET - -_(thoughtfully)_ - -Did he? I was twenty-seven. He was twenty. If -either of us was to blame, wasn’t it I? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet, you’re trying to screen him. - - - -JANET - -Dearest mother, you talk like a sentimental -novel. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(indignantly)_ - -And he’s to be allowed to marry Bertha Aldenham, -just as if this had never happened? - - - -JANET - -Why not? It’s not _her_ fault, is it? And -girls find it difficult enough to get married -nowadays, goodness knows. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Still, she _ought_ to be told, Janet. I think -_she must_ be told. - - - -JANET - -My dear mother, if _she_ knows everybody will -know, and the scandal will make all the dead -and gone De Mullins turn in their graves. As for -father it would simply kill him out of hand. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(sadly)_ - -Poor father. - - - -JANET - -_(briskly)_ - -So, on the whole, I don’t think we’ll tell any -one. Come, mother, it’s time we started. _(More -kindly)_ Poor mother. Don’t fret. Perhaps Hester -will have some news to cheer you when we get -home. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Hester? - - - -JANET - -_(rallying her)_ - -An engagement, mother. Hester’s engagement. -Hester and Mr. Brown have been decorating -the church for the last _four_ hours. What an -opportunity for a declaration! Or don’t people -propose in church? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet, how can you laugh after what has -happened? - - - -JANET - -Laugh? Of course I can laugh. What else is there -to do? Let’s go home. Johnny! Johnny! _(calls)_. - -[_By this time twilight is falling. A full moon -has begun to risey lighting uf the scene._ - - - -JOHNNY - -_(off r.)_ - -Yes, Mummie. - - - -JANET - -Come along, dear. Mother’s going to start. -Johnny _(off r.)_ - -All right, Mummie. _(entering r.)_ Oh, Mummie, -you’ve not seen my rabbits yet! - - - -JANET - -No. It’s too dark to-night. Mother must come and -see them another time. - - - -JOHNNY - -You won’t forget, will you, Mummie? _(looking -at Mrs. De Mullin)_ Grandmother, you’ve been -crying. Is that because I stung myself with a -nettle? - - - -JANET - -Little egoist! Of course it is. Give your -grandmother a kiss and we’ll all walk home -together. - -[_Mrs. De Mullin stoop and kisses Johnny -passionately. They go off through the gate and -the curtain falls._ - - - - -ACT III - - -Five days have passed since Act II - -_Scene:_ As in Act I - -_Time:_ Late afternoon - - -[_When the curtain rises Mrs. Clouston, Mrs. De -Mullin, and Janet are on the stage. The nervous -tension of the last few days has clearly told on -Janet, who looks feverish and irritable._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(speaking off into the hall on -the right)_ Good-bye. Good-bye. - - - -JANET - -_(who is standing about c., scornfully)_ -Good-bye! Good-bye! - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(shocked)_ - -Janet! - - - -JANET - -_(fiercely)_ - -How many times a week does that Bulstead woman -think it necessary to call on us? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(sitting)_ - -She doesn’t call very often. - - - -JANET - -She’s been three times this week. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(closing door r.)_ - -Naturally she wants to hear how your father is, -dear. - - - -JANET - -_(irritably)_ - -My dear mother, what _can_ it matter to Mrs. -Bulstead whether father lives or dies? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet! - - - -JANET - -_(exasperated)_ - -Well, mother, do you seriously believe she -cares? Or Miss Deanes? Or Miss Rolt? Or any of -these people? They only call because they’ve -nothing better to do. It’s sheer mental vacuity -on their part. Besides, father’s perfectly well -now. They know that. But they go on _calling, -calling!_ I wonder Miss Deanes doesn’t bring her -cockatoo to inquire. - -[_Tramps to and fro impatiently._ - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Really, Janet, I can’t think what’s the matter -with you. Do sit down and try and exercise some -selfcontrol. - - - -JANET - -I’ve no self-control where these Brendon people -are concerned. They get on my nerves, every one -of them.... Where’s Johnny? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -In the garden, I think, - - - -JANET - -Sensible boy! He’s had enough of visitors for -one day, I’ll be bound. I’ll go out and join -him. - -[_Goes out angrily._ - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -I can’t think what’s come to Janet the last day -or two. Her temper gets worse and worse. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Perhaps it’s only the hot weather. No De -Mullin--- - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Nonsense, Jane, don’t be foolish. We can’t have -_Janet_ giving way to that sort of thing at her -age. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I’m afraid she is rather irritable just now. She -flew out quite savagely at Hester to-day just -after luncheon. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Why was that? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Because of something she had been teaching -Johnny. The Athanasian Creed I think it was. -Yes, it must have been that because Johnny asked -Janet what was meant by three Incomprehensibles. -Janet asked him where he had heard all that and -Johnny said Aunt Hester had taught it to him. -Janet was very angry and forbade Hester ever to -teach him anything again. Hester was quite hurt -about it. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Naturally. Still, I do think Hester might have -chosen something else to teach him. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -That was what Janet said. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -But that’s no reason why she shouldn’t behave -herself when visitors are here. She was quite -rude to Mrs. Bulstead. What they think of her -in London when she goes on like this I can’t -imagine. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Perhaps she isn’t like this in London. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Of course she is, Jane. Worse. Here she has the -restraining influences of home life. Whereas in -London, living alone as she does... - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She has Johnny. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -She has Johnny, of course. But that’s not -enough. She ought to have a husband to look -after her. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(sighs)_ - -Yes. - -[_Seats herself slowly beside her sister._ - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Where’s Hester? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -At church, I expect. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Church! Why the girl’s always at church. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -It’s a Wednesday. And it does no harm, I think. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Let us hope not, Jane. - -[_De Mullin enters by the door on the left. He -has evidently got over his recent attack and -looks comparatively hale and vigorous._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Have you had your nap, Hugo? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes. The sunset woke me, I suppose. It was -shining full on my face. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -What a pity it woke you. - - - -DE MULLIN - -It didn’t matter. I’ve slept enough... _(wanders -towards sofa, c.)_. Where’s Johnny? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -In the garden, I think, with Janet. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(wanders to window, c., and looks -out)_ - -Yes. There he is. He’s playing hide and seek -with Ellen.... Now she’s caught him. No, he’s -got away. Bravo, Johnny! _(Stands watching -intently for a while. Then turns and comes down -c.)_ What a fine little fellow it is! A true De -Mullin! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Do you think so, Hugo? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Every inch of him! _(pause, sits c., half to -himself)_ If only Janet had been married! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(sighs)_ - -Yes. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(musing)_ - -I wonder who the father really was. _(looking -up)_ She has never told you, Jane, I suppose? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(steadily, without looking up)_ - -No, Hugo. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -And never will. Nobody was ever so obstinate as -Janet. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(nods sadly)_ - - - -JANET always had plenty of will. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Far too much! [_pause._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You’ll quite miss Johnny when he goes away from -us, Won’t you, Hugo. - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes. I never thought I could grow so fond of a -child. The house will seem empty without him. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I shall miss him too. - - - -DE MULLIN - -We shall all miss him. _(pause, thoughtfully)_ I -wonder if Janet would leave him with us when she -goes back to London? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Leave him with us? Altogether, you mean? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I’m afraid not, Hugo. In fact, I’m quite sure -she would not. She’s so fond of Johnny. - - - -DE MULLIN - -I suppose she wouldn’t _(pause)_. I was greatly -shocked at what you told me about her the other -day, Harriet. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -About her keeping a shop, you mean? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes. And going into partnership with a -Miss Higgs or Hicks. It all sounds most -discreditable. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Deplorable. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(meekly)_ - -She had to do something to keep herself, Hugo. - - - -DE MULLIN - -No doubt. Still, it can’t be considered a proper -sort of position for my daughter. I think she -must give it up at once. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -She would only have to take to something else. - - - -DE MULLIN - -Not necessarily. She might come back here to -live with us... with Johnny, of course. - -Mrs. De. Mullin _(astonished)_ - -_Live_ with us? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Why not, Jane? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Well, of course if _you_ think so, Hugo. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Are you sure you will like to have Janet living -at home again, Hugo? - - - -DE MULLIN - -I think it might be the best arrangement. And -I shall like to have Johnny here. He’s our only -descendant, Harriet, the last of the De Mullins. -If you or Jane had had a son it would be -different. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(sighs)_ - -Yes. - - - -DE MULLIN - -As it is I don’t see how we can do -anything-better than have them both down -here--as Jane doesn’t think Janet would part -with Johnny. It would be better for Janet -too. It would take her away from her present -unsatisfactory surroundings. It would give her -a position and independence--everything she now -lacks. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -I should have thought she was _independent_ now, - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(irritably)_ - -My dear Jane, how can a woman possibly be -independent whose income comes out of selling -hats? The only form of independence that is -possible or desirable for a woman is that she -shall be dependent upon her husband or, if she -is unmarried, on her nearest male relative. I am -sure _you_ agree with me, Harriet? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Quite, Hugo. - - - -DE MULLIN - -Very well. I will speak to her about it at once. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(nervously)_ - -I hardly think I would say anything about it -to-day, Hugo. - - - -DE MULLIN - -Why not, Jane? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Well, she seems nervous and irritable to-day. I -think I should put it off for a day or two. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(testily)_ - -My dear Jane, you are always procrastinating. If -such an arrangement is to be made the sooner -it is made the better. _(Goes to window, c., -calls)_ Janet my dear. Janet. - -[_Pause. Then Janet appears at window, c._ - - - -JANET - -Did you call me, father? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes. Come to me for a moment. I want to speak -to you. _(De Mullin wanders undecidedly to the -fireplace. A moment later Janet enters from the -garden.)_ Is Johnny with you? - - - -JANET - -No. He’s having tea with Ellen. I said he might. - -[_Pause. Janet comes down._ - - - -DE MULLIN - -Janet, your mother and I have been talking over -your future. - - - -JANET - -Have you, father? - -[_With a quick glance at her mother. Mrs. De -Mullin, however, makes no sign._ - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes. We have come to the conclusion that it -would be better for you to come back here to -live. - -[_Janet faces round towards her father._ - - - -JANET - -But what would become of the business? - - - -DE MULLIN - -You will have to give up the business, of -course. So much the better. You never ought to -have gone into it. It was not at all a suitable -occupation for you. - - - -JANET - -But I like it, father. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_Like_ it! A De Mullin _like_ keeping a shop! -Impossible. - - - -JANET - -_(firmly)_ - -Yes, Aunt Harriet, I like it. And I’m proud of -it. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(sharply)_ - -Nonsense, Janet. Nobody can possibly be proud of -keeping a shop. - - - -JANET - -_I_ am. I made it, you see. It’s my child, like -Johnny. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(amazed)_ - - - -JANET! Do you understand what you’re doing? I -offer you the chance of returning to Brendon to -live as my daughter. - - - -JANET - -_(indifferently)_ - -I quite understand, father. And I’m much obliged -for the offer. Only I decline it. That’s all. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Really! - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(with dignity)_ - -The question is, are you to be allowed to -decline it, in Johnny’s interests if not your -own? - - - -JANET - -Johnny’s? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Yes. Johnny’s. As long as he was a child it -made little difference where he was brought up. -Relatively little that is. Now he is getting -to an age when early associations are -all-important. Living here at Brendon in the -home of his ancestors he will grow up worthy of -the race from which he is descended. He will be -a true De Mullin. - - - -JANET - -_(quietly)_ - -Perhaps I don’t want him to be a true De Mullin, -father. - - - -DE MULLIN - -What do you mean? - - - -JANET - -My dear father, you’re infatuated about your De -Mullins. Who are the De Mullins, after all? -Mere country squires who lived on here down at -Brendon generation after generation. What have -they ever done that I should want Johnny to be -like them? Nothing. There’s not one of them who -has ever distinguished himself in the smallest -degree or made his name known outside his native -village. The De Mullins are, and have always -been, nobodies. Look at their portraits. Is -there a single one of them that is worth a -second glance? Why they never even had the -brains to be painted by a decent artist. With -the result that they aren’t worth the canvas -they’re painted on. Or is it board? I’d make a -bonfire of them if they were mine. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet! - - - -JANET - -_(impatiently)_ - -I would. You seem to think there’s some peculiar -virtue about always living in the same place. I -believe in people uprooting themselves and doing -something with their lives. What was the good of -the De Mullins going on living down here century -after century, always a little poorer and a -little poorer, selling a farm here, mortgaging -another there, instead of going out into the -world to seek their fortunes? We’ve stayed too -long in one place, we De Mullins. We shall never -be worth anything sleeping away our lives down -at Brendon. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(sharply)_ - -Janet, you are talking foolishly. What you say -only makes it clearer to me that you cannot -be allowed to live by yourself in London any -longer. Such a life is demoralizing to you. You -must come back to Brendon. - - - -JANET - -I shall not come back to Brendon, father. On -that I am quite determined. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(with dignity)_ - -My dear, this is not a matter that rests with -you. My mind is made up. Hitherto I have only -asked you to return. Do not force me to command -you. - - - -JANET - -_(fiercely)_ - -Command? By what right do you command? - - - -DE MULLIN - -By the right of a father, Janet. By that right I -insist on your obedience. - - - -JANET - -_(losing her temper)_ - -Obedience! Obedience! I owe no one obedience. -I am of full age and can order my life as I -please. Is a woman never to be considered old -enough to manage her own affairs? Is she to go -down to her grave everlastingly under tutelage? -Is she always to be obeying a father when she’s -not obeying a husband? Well, I, for one, will -not submit to such nonsense. I’m sick of this -everlasting _obedience_. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(fiercely)_ - - - -JANET...! - -[_Door opens l. Ellen enters with the lamp. -There is a considerable pause, during which -Ellen puts down the lamp, turns it up, pulls -down the blind and begins to draw the curtains. -In the middle of the last process De Mullin -intervenes._ - - - -DE MULLIN - -(irritably) - -You can leave the curtains, Ellen. - - - -ELLEN - -Very well, sir. - -[_Exit Ellen l. with maddening deliberation. -Pause._ - - - -JANET - -Father, I’m sorry if what I said vexed you. -Perhaps I spoke too strongly. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(with great dignity)_ - -Very well, Janet. You will remain with us. - - - -JANET - -No, father, that’s not possible. For Johnny’s -sake, as well as my own, it would be madness for -us to live down here. - - - -DE MULLIN - -For Johnny’s sake? - - - -JANET - -Yes, Johnny’s. In London we’re not known, he and -I. There he’s simply Johnny Seagrave, the son of -a respectable widow who keeps a hat-shop. Here -he is the son of Janet De Mullin who ran away -from home one night eight years ago and whose -name was never mentioned again by her parents -until one fine day she turned up with an -eight-year-old boy and said she was married. How -long would they take to see through _that_ story -down here, do you think? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -_(tartly)_ - -Whose fault is that? - - - -JANET - -Never mind whose fault it is, Aunt Harriet. The -question is, will they see through it or will -they not? Of course, they _know_ nothing so far, -but I’ve no doubt they suspect. What else have -people to do down here but suspect other people? -Miss Deanes murmurs her doubts to Mrs. Bulstead -and Mrs. Bulstead shakes her head to Miss -Deanes. Mrs. Bulstead! What right has _she_ to -look down that huge nose of hers at _me!_ She’s -had _ten_ children! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - - - -JANET! She’s married. - - - -JANET - -To Mr. Bulstead! That vulgar animal! You don’t -ask me to consider that a _merit_, do you? No, -Mrs. Bulstead shan’t have the chance of sneering -at Johnny if _I_ can help it. Or at me either. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet, listen to me. You don’t understand how -your father feels about this or how much it -means to him. Johnny is his only grandchild--our -only descendant. He would adopt him and call him -De Mullin, and then the name would not die out. -You know how much your father thinks of that and -how sorry he has always been that I never had a -son. - - - -JANET - -_(more gently)_ - -I know, mother. But when Hester marries... - - - -HESTER? - - - -DE MULLIN - - - -JANET - -Yes. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(turning angrily to his wife)_ - -But whom is Hester going to marry? Is she going -to marry? I have heard nothing about this. -What’s this, Jane? Has something been kept from -me? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -No, no, Hugo. Nothing has been kept from you. -It’s only some fancy of Janet’s. She thinks Mr. -Brown is going to propose to Hester. There’s -nothing in it, really. - - - -DE MULLIN - -Mr. Brown! Impossible! - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Quite impossible! - - - -JANET - -_(calmly)_ - -Why impossible, father? - - - -DE MULLIN - -He would never dare to do such a thing. _Mr. -Brown_ to have the audacity to propose to _my_ -daughter! - - - -JANET - -_(quietly)_ - -Why not, father? - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(bubbling with rage)_ - -Because he is not of a suitable position. -Because the _De Mullins_ cannot be expected to -marry people of _that_ class. Because... - - - -JANET - -_(shrugs)_ - -I dare say Mr. Brown won’t think of all that. -Anyhow, I hope he won’t. I hope he’ll propose -to Hester and she’ll accept him and then when -they’ve a whole herd of little Browns you can -select one of them and make a De Mullin of him, -poor little wretch. - -_[At this moment Hester enters from the garden. -An uncomfortable silence falls_. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Hush, hush, Janet. Here is Hester. Is that you, -Hester? Have you come from church? - - - -HESTER - -Yes, mother. - -_[She comes down, her face looking pale and -drawn, and stands by her mother._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -You’re very late, dear. - - - -HESTER - -A little, I stayed on after service was over. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -How very eccentric of you! - - - -HESTER - -_(quietly)_ - -I suppose saying one’s prayers does seem -eccentric to you, Aunt Harriet? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -My dear Hester, considering you’d only just -finished _one_ service... - - - -JANET - -_(who has not noticed the look on her -sister’s face)_ - -Well, Aunt Harriet, who was right? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Hush, Janet! - - - -JANET - -_(gaily)_ - -My dear mother, what on earth is there to “hush” - about? And what on earth is there to keep Hester -in church half an hour after service is over, if -it’s not what I told you? - - - -HESTER - -What do you mean? - - - -JANET - -Nothing, dear. Come and give me a kiss. - -[_Pulling her towards her._ - - - -HESTER {repulsing her roughly) - -I won’t. Leave me alone, Janet. What has she -been saying about me, mother? I insist on -knowing. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Nothing, dear. Only some nonsense about you and -Mr. Brown. Janet is always talking nonsense. - - - -JANET - -Yes, Hester. About you and Mr. Brown. _Your_ Mr. -Brown. Confess he has asked you to marry him as -I said? - - - -HESTER - -_(slowly)_ - -Mr. Brown is engaged to be married to Agatha -Bulstead. He told me so this evening after -service. - - - -JANET - -He told you! - - - -HESTER - -Yes. He asked me to congratulate him. - - - -JANET - -The little wretch! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -To Agatha Bulstead? That’s the plain one, isn’t -it? - - - -HESTER - -The third one. Yes. - - - -JANET - -The plain one! Good heavens, it oughtn’t to be -allowed. The children will be little monsters. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -So that’s why you were so long at church? - - - -HESTER - -Yes. I was praying that they might be happy. - - - -JANET - -Poor Hester! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Are you disappointed, dear? - - - -HESTER - -I’d rather not talk about it if you don’t mind, -mother. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Your father would never have given his consent. - - - -HESTER - -So Mr. Brown said. - - - -JANET - -The little _worm_. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -My dear! - - - -JANET - -Well, mother, isn’t it too contemptible? - - - -DE MULLIN - -I’m bound to say Mr. Brown seems to have behaved -in a very fitting manner. - - - -JANET - -You think so, father? - - - -DE MULLIN - -Certainly. He saw what my objections would -be and recognized that they were reasonable. -Nothing could be more proper. - - - -JANET - -Well, father. I don’t know what you do want. Ten -minutes ago you were supposed to be wanting a -grandson to adopt. Here’s Hester going the right -way to provide one, and you don’t like that -either. - - - -HESTER - -What is all this about, father? What have you -all been discussing while I’ve been out? - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -It was nothing about you, Hester. - - - -HESTER - -I’m not sure of that, mother. Anyhow I should -like to hear what it was. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Hester, that is not at all a proper tone to use -in speaking to your mother. - - - -HESTER - -_(fiercely)_ - -Please don’t interfere, Aunt Harriet. I suppose -I can be trusted to speak to my mother properly -by this time. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -You certainly ought to, my dear. You are quite -old enough. - - - -HESTER - -Very well then. Perhaps you will be good enough -not to dictate to me in future. What was it you -were discussing, father? - - - -JANET - -I’ll tell you, Hester. Father wanted to adopt -Johnny. He wanted me to come down here to live -altogether. - - - -HESTER - -Indeed? Well, father, understand, please, that -if Janet comes down here to live _I go!_ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - - -Hester! - - - -HESTER - -I will not live in the same house with Janet. -Nothing shall induce me. I would rather beg my -bread. - - - -JANET - -That settles it then. Thanks, Hester. I’m glad -you had the pluck to say that. You are right. -Quite right. - - - -HESTER - -I can do without _your_ approval, Janet. - - - -JANET - -_(recklessly)_ - -Of course you can. But you can have it all the -same. You never wanted me down here. You always -disapproved of my being sent for. I ought never -to have come. I wish I hadn’t come. My coming -has only done harm to Hester, as she knew it -would. - - - -DE MULLIN - -How harm? - - - -JANET - -Mr. Brown would have asked Hester to marry him -if I hadn’t come. He meant to; I’m sure of it. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -But he said... - - - -JANET - -I know. But that was only an excuse. Young -men aren’t so considerate of their future -fathers-inlaw as all that nowadays. No. Mr. -Brown heard some story about me from Miss -Deanes. Or perhaps the Vicar put him on his -guard. Isn’t it so, Hester? - -[_Hester nods._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -But as your father would never have consented, -dear... - - - -HESTER - -_(slowly)_ - -Still, I’d rather he had asked me, mother. - - - -JANET - -Quite right, Hester! I’m glad you’ve got -some wholesome feminine vanity left in your -composition. And you’d have said “yes,” like a -sensible woman. - - - -HESTER - -Oh, you’re always sneering! - - - -JANET - -Yes. But I’m _going_, Hester, _going! That’s_ -great thing! Keep your eyes fixed steadily on -that and you’ll be able to bear anything else. -That reminds me. _(Goes to door, l., and calls -loudly into the hall.)_ Johnny! Johnny! - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Really, Janet! - - - -JANET - -Oh, I forgot. It’s not genteel to call into -the passage, is it? I ought to have rung. I -apologise, Aunt Harriet. _(Calls again)_ Johnny! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Why are you calling Johnny? - - - -JANET - -To tell him to put on his hat and coat, mother -dear. I’m going to the station. - - - -DE MULLIN - -You’re going to-night? - - - -JANET - -Yes, father, to-night. I’ve done harm enough -down here. I’m going away. - - - -JOHNNY - -_(entering l.)_ - -Do you want me, Mummie? - - - -JANET - -Yes. Run and put on your things and say goodbye -to Cook and Ellen and tell Robert to put in the -pony. Mother’s going back to London. - - - -JOHNNY - -Are we going now, Mummie? - - - -JANET - -_(nods)_ - -As fast as the train can carry us. And tell -Ellen to lock my trunk for me and give you the -key. Run along. - -_[Exit Johnny, l._ - - - -DE MULLIN - -Lock your trunk! But you’ve not _packed?_ - - - -JANET - -Oh yes, I have. Everything’s packed, down to my -last shoelace. I don’t know how often I haven’t -packed and unpacked during the last five days. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -_(astonished and hurt)_ - -You meant to leave us then, Janet? You’ve been -_wanting_ to leave us all the time? - - - -JANET - -Yes, mother. I’ve been wanting to leave you. I -can’t stay here any longer. Brendon stifles -me. It has too many ghosts. I suppose it’s your -ridiculous De Mullins. - - - -DE MULLIN - -Janet! - - - -JANET - -I know, father. That’s blasphemy, isn’t it? But -I can’t help it. I must go. I’ve been meaning to -tell you every day for the last four days, but -somehow I always put it off. - - - -DE MULLIN - -Understand me, Janet. If you leave this house -to-night you leave it for ever. - - - -JANET - -_(cheerfully)_ - -All right, father. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(growing angrier)_ - -Understand, too, that if you leave it you are -never to hold any communication either with me -or with any one in it henceforward. You are cut -off from the family. I will never see you or -recognize you in any way, or speak to you again -as long as I live. - - - -JANET - -_(astonished)_ - -My dear father, why are you so angry? Is there -anything so dreadful in my wanting to live in -London instead of in the country? - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(getting more and more excited)_ - -Why am I angry! Why am I...! - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Sh! Hugo! You mustn’t excite yourself. You know -the doctor said... - - - -DE MULLIN - -Be quiet, Jane! _(turning furiously to Janet)_ -Why am I angry! You disgrace the family. You -have a child, that poor fatherless boy.... - - - -JANET - -_(quietly)_ - -Oh come, I could have got along quite well -without a father if it comes to that. And so -could Hester. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet! - - - -JANET - -Well, mother, what has father ever done for -Hester or me except try and prevent us from -doing something we wanted to do? Hester wanted -to marry Mr. Brown. Father wouldn’t have allowed -her. He’s not genteel enough to marry a De -Mullin. I want to go back to my shop. Father -objects to that. That’s not genteel enough for a -De Mullin either. Well, hang all the De Mullins, -say I. - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(furious)_ - -I forbid you to speak of your family in that -way-of _my_ family! I forbid it! It is an -outrage. Your ancestors were honourable men and -pure women. They did their duty in the position -in which they were born, and handed on their -name untarnished to their children. Hitherto our -honour has been unsullied. You have sullied it. -You have brought shame upon your parents and -shame upon your son, and that shame you can -never wipe out. If you had in you a spark of -human feeling, if you were not worthless and -heartless you would blush to look me in the face -or your child in the face. But you are utterly -hardened. I ought never to have offered to -receive you back into this house. I ought never -to have consented to see you again. I was wrong. -I regret it. You are unfit for the society of -decent people. Go back to London. Take up the -wretched trade you practise there. It is what -you are fit for. - - - -JANET - -That’s exactly what I think, father. As we agree -about it why make such a fuss? - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(furious)_ - -Janet.... - - - -HESTER - -Father, don’t argue with her. It’s no use. -_(solemnly)_ Leave her to God. - - - -JANET - -Hester, Hester, don’t deceive yourself. In your -heart you envy me my baby, and you know it. - - - -HESTER - -_(indignant)_ - -I do not. - - - -JANET - -You do. Time is running on with you, my dear. -You’re twenty-eight. Just the age that I was -when I met my lover. Yes, my lover. In a few -years you will be too old for love, too old to -have children. So soon it passeth away and we -are gone. Your best years are slipping by and -you are growing faded and cross and peevish. -Already the lines are hardening about your mouth -and the hollows coming under your eyes. You -will be an old woman before your time unless you -marry and have children. And what will you do -then? Keep a lap-dog, I suppose, or sit up at -night with a sick cockatoo like Miss Deanes. -Miss Deanes! Even she has a heart somewhere -about her. Do you imagine she wouldn’t -rather give it to her babies than snivel over -_poultry?_ No, Hester, make good use of your -youth, my dear. It won’t last always. And once -gone it is gone for ever. _(Hester bursts into -tears.)_ There, there, Hester! I’m sorry. I -oughtn’t to have spoken like that. It wasn’t -kind. Forgive me. _(Hester weep more and more -violently.)_ Hester, don’t cry like that. I -can’t bear to hear you. I was angry and said -more than I should. I didn’t mean to vex you. -Come, dear, you mustn’t give way like that or -you’ll make yourself ill. Dry your eyes and let -me see you smile. _(Caressing her. Hester, who -has begun by resisting her feebly, gradually -allows herself to be soothed.)_ That’s better! -My dear, what a sight you’ve made of yourself! -But all women are hideous when they’ve been -crying. It makes their noses red and that’s -dreadfully unbecoming. _(Hester sobs out a -laugh)_. No. You mustn’t begin to cry again or I -shall scold you. I shall, really. - - - -HESTER - -_(half laughing, half crying -hysterically)_ - -You seem to think every woman ought to behave as -shamefully as you did. - - - -JANET - -_(grimly)_ - -No, Hester. I don’t think that. To do as I did -needs pluck and brains--and five hundred pounds. -Everything most women haven’t got, poor things. -So they must marry or remain childless. You must -marry--the next curate. I suppose the Bulsteads -will buy Mr. Brown a living as he’s marrying the -plainest of the daughters. It’s the least they -can do. But that’s no reason why _I_ should -marry unless I choose. - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON - -Well, I’ve never heard of anything so -disgraceful. I thought Janet at least had the -grace to be ashamed of what she did! - - - -JANET - -_(genuinely astonished)_ - -Ashamed? Ashamed of wanting to have a child? -What on earth were women created for, Aunt -Harriet, if not to have children? - - - -MRS. CLOUSTON To _marry_ and have children. - - - -JANET - -_(with relentless logic)_ - -My dear Aunt Harriet, women had children -thousands of years before marriage was invented. -I dare say they will go on doing so thousands of -years after it has ceased to exist. - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet! - - - -JANET - -Well, mother, that’s how I feel. And I believe -it’s how all wholesome women feel if they would -only acknowledge it. I _wanted_ to have a child. -I always did from the time when I got too old to -play with dolls. Not an adopted child or a child -of some one else’s, but a baby of my very own. -Of course I wanted to marry. That’s the ordinary -way a woman wants to be a mother nowadays, -I suppose. But time went on and nobody came -forward, and I saw myself getting old and my -chance slipping away. Then I met-never mind. And -I fell in love with him. Or perhaps I only -fell in love with love. I don’t know. It was -so splendid to find some one at last who really -cared for me as women should be cared for! -Not to talk to because I was clever or to play -tennis with because I was strong, but to kiss me -and to make love to me! Yes! To make love to me! - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(solemnly)_ - -Listen to me, my girl. You say that now, and I -dare say you believe it. But when you are older, -when Johnny is grown up, you will bitterly -repent having brought into the world a child who -can call no man father. - - - -JANET - -_(passionately)_ - -Never! Never! That I’m sure of. Whatever -happens, even if Johnny should come to hate me -for what I did, I shall always be glad to have -been his mother. At least I shall have lived. -These poor women who go through life listless -and dull, who have never felt the joys and the -pains a mother feels, how they would envy me if -they knew! If they knew! To know that a child is -your very own, is a part of you. That you have -faced sickness and pain and death itself for it. -That it is yours and nothing can take it from -you because no one can understand its wants as -you do. To feel it’s soft breath on your cheek, -to soothe it when it is fretful and still it -when it cries, that is motherhood and that is -glorious! - -[_Johnny runs in by the door on the left. He is -obviously in the highest spirits at the thought -of going home._ - - - -JOHNNY - -The trap is round, Mummie, and the luggage is -in. - - - -JANET - -That’s right. Good-bye, father. _(He does not -move)_ Say good-bye to your grandfather, Johnny. -You won’t see him again. - -[_De Mullin kisses Johnny._ - - - -MRS. DE MULLIN - -Janet! - - - -JANET - -No, mother. It’s best not. _(Kisses her)_ It -would only be painful for father. Good-bye, Aunt -Harriet. Good-bye, Hester. - -[_Looks at Hester doubtfully. Hester rises, goes -to her slowly and kisses her._ - - - -HESTER - -Good-bye. . - -[_Exeunt Johnny and Janet by the door the -right._ - - - -DE MULLIN - -_(his grey head bowed on his chest -as Mrs De Mullin timidly lays her hand on his -shoulder)_ - -The last of the De Mullins! The last of the De -Mullins! - -_(The curtain falls)_ - - - - - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The Last of The De Mullins, by St. John Hankin - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LAST OF THE DE MULLINS *** - -***** This file should be named 54699-0.txt or 54699-0.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/5/4/6/9/54699/ - -Produced by David Widger from page images generously -provided by the Internet Archive - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - -Title: The Last of The De Mullins - A Play without a Preface - -Author: St. John Hankin - -Release Date: May 10, 2017 [EBook #54699] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LAST OF THE DE MULLINS *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger from page images generously -provided by the Internet Archive - - - - - - -</pre> - - <div style="height: 8em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h1> - THE LAST OF<br /> THE DE MULLINS - </h1> - <h4> - A Play without a Preface - </h4> - <h2> - By St. John Hankin - </h2> - <h4> - London: A. C. Fifield - </h4> - <h4> - 1909 - </h4> -<div class="fig" style="width:50%;"> - <img src="images/0010.jpg" alt="0010 " width="100%" /><br /> - </div> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p> - The Persons in the Play - </p> - <p> - Hugo De Mullin - </p> - <p> - Jane De Mullin.....His wife - </p> - <p> - Mrs. Clouston......His sister. - </p> - <p> - Janet De Mullin....(Mrs. Seagrave) Hugo’s eldest daughter. - </p> - <p> - Johnny Seagrave....Her son. - </p> - <p> - Hester De Mullin...Her sister. - </p> - <p> - Bertha Aldenham - </p> - <p> - Monty Bulstead - </p> - <p> - Dr. Rolt...........The local doctor. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Brown..........The curate. - </p> - <p> - Miss Deanes - </p> - <p> - Ellen..............Maid at the De Mullins’. - </p> - <p> - The action of the play takes place at Brendon Underwood in Dorset, Acts I - and III at the Manor House, the De Mullins’ house in the village, Act II - on the borders of Brendon Forest. Three days pass between Acts I and II, - five between Acts II and III. - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <p> - <b>CONTENTS</b> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> ACT I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> ACT II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> ACT III </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - ACT I - </h2> - <p> - <i>Scene:</i> The Inner Hall at the Manor House in Brendon-Underwood - village. An old-fashioned white-panelled room. At the back is a big - stone-mullioned Tudor window looking out on to the garden. On the left of - this is a bay in which is a smaller window. A door in the bay leads out - into the garden. People entering by this door pass the window before they - appear. The furniture is oak, mostly Jacobean or older. The right-hand - wall of the room is mainly occupied by a great Tudor fireplace, over which - the De Mullin Coat of Arms is carved in stone. Above this a door leads to - the outer hall and front door. A door on the opposite side of the room - leads to the staircase and the rest of the house. The walls are hung with - a long succession of family portraits of all periods and in all stages of - dinginess as to both canvas and frame. When the curtain rises the stage is - empty. Then Hester is seen to pass the window at the back, followed by Mr. - Brown. A moment later they enter. Mr. Brown is a stout, rather - unwholesome-looking curate, Hester a lean, angular girl of twenty-eight, - very plainly and unattractively dressed in sombre tight-fitting clothes. - She has a cape over her shoulders and a black hat on. Brown wears seedy - clerical garments, huge boots and a squashy hat. The time is twelve - o’clock in the morning of a fine day in September. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Come in, Mr. Brown. I’ll tell mother you’re here. I expect she’s upstairs - with father (going towards door). - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Don’t disturb Mrs. De Mullin, please. I didn’t mean to come in. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - You’ll sit down now you <i>are</i> here? - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Thank you (<i>does so awkwardly</i>). I’m so glad to hear Mr. De Mullin is - better. The Vicar will be glad too. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Dr. Rolt thinks he will do all right now. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - You must have been very anxious when he was first taken ill. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - We were terribly anxious. [Hester <i>takes off her hat and cape and puts - them down on the window seat</i>. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - I suppose there’s no doubt it was some sort of stroke? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Dr. Rolt says no doubt. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - How did it happen? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - We don’t know. He had just gone out of the room when we heard a fall. - Mother ran out into the hall and found him lying by the door quite - unconscious. She was dreadfully frightened. So were we all. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Had he been complaining of feeling unwell? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Not specially. He complained of the heat a little. And he had a headache. - But father’s not strong, you know. None of the De Mullins are, Aunt - Harriet says. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Mrs. Clouston is with you now, isn’t she? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Yes. For a month. She generally stays with us for a month in the summer. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - I suppose she’s very fond of Brendon? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - All the De Mullins are fond of Brendon, Mr. Brown. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Naturally. You have been here so long. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Since the time of King Stephen. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Not in this house? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - (smiling) - </p> - <p> - Not in this house, of course. It’s not old enough for that. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Still, it must be very old. The oldest house in the Village, isn’t it? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Only about four hundred years. The date is 1603. The mill is older, of - course. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - You still own the mill, don’t you? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Father would never part with it. He thinks everything of the mill. We - get our name from it, you know. De Mullin. Du Moulin. “Of the Mill.” - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Were the original De Mullins millers then? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - (<i>rather shocked at such a suggestion</i>) - </p> - <p> - Oh no! - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - I thought they couldn’t have been. . - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - No De Mullin has ever been in trade of <i>any</i> kind! But in the old - days to own a mill was a feudal privilege. Only lords of manors and the - great abbeys had them. The farmers had to bring all their corn to them to - be ground. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - I see. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - There were constant disputes about it all through the Middle Ages. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Why was that? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - The farmers would rather have ground their corn for themselves, I suppose. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Why? If the De Mullins were willing to do it for them? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - They had to pay for having it ground, of course. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - (<i>venturing on a small joke</i>) - </p> - <p> - Then the De Mullins <i>were</i> millers, after all, in a sense. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - You mustn’t let father hear you say so! - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - The mill is never used now, is it? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - No. When, people gave up growing corn round here and all the land was - turned into pasture it fell into decay, and now it’s almost ruinous. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - What a pity! - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Father says England has never been the same since the repeal of the - Corn laws. (<i>Enter Mrs. De Mullin and Mrs. Clouston by the door on the - left, followed by Dr. Rolt.</i>) Here is mother—and Aunt Harriet. - </p> - <p> - <i>Mrs. De Mullin, poor lady, is a crushed, timid creature of fifty-eight - or so, entirely dominated by the De Mullin fetish and quite unable to hold - her own against either her husband or her sister-in-law, a hardmouthed, - resolute woman of sixty. Even Hester she finds almost too much for her. - For the rest a gentle, kindly lady, rather charming in her extreme - helplessness. Rolt is the average country doctor, brisk, sensible, neither - a fool nor a genius.</i> - </p> - <h4> - ROLT - </h4> - <p> - (as they enter the room) - </p> - <p> - He’s better. Distinctly better. A little weak and depressed, of course. - That’s only to be expected. Good morning. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Shakes hands with Hester. Nods to Brown</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Mr. De Mullin is always nervous about himself. - </p> - <h4> - ROLT - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Constitutional, no doubt. But he’ll pick up in a few days. Keep him - as quiet as you can. That’s really all he needs now. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You don’t think he ought to stay in his room? - </p> - <p> - ... Good morning, Mr. Brown. Are you waiting to see me? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Brown shakes hands with both ladies.</i> - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - (<i>awkwardly</i>) - </p> - <p> - Not specially. I walked over from the church with Miss De Mullin. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Is father coming downstairs, mother? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes, Hester. He insisted on getting up. You know he always hates staying - in his room. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Oh, Dr. Rolt, do you think he <i>should?</i> - </p> - <h4> - ROLT - </h4> - <p> - I don’t think it will do him any harm. He can rest quietly in a chair or - on the sofa.... Well, I must be off. Good-bye, Mrs. De Mullin. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Shakes hands briskly with every one</i>. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - (<i>rising ponderously</i>) - </p> - <p> - I must be going too (<i>shakes hands with Mrs. De Mullin</i>). You’ll tell - Mr. De Mullin I inquired after him? Good-bye, Mrs. Clouston (<i>shakes - hands</i>). And you’re coming to help with the Harvest Decorations on - Saturday, aren’t you, Miss De Mullin? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shaking hands)</i> - </p> - <p> - Of course. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Brown and Rolt go out.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(seating herself and beginning to knit resolutely)</i> - </p> - <p> - What singularly unattractive curates the Vicar seems to get hold of, - Jane!. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(meekly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Do you think so, Harriet? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Quite remarkably. This Mr. Brown, for instance. He has the most enormous - <i>feet!</i> And his boots! I’ve never seen such boots! - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(flushing)</i> - </p> - <p> - We needn’t sneer if Mr. Brown doesn’t wear fine clothes, Aunt Harriet. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Of course not Hester. Still, I think he goes to the opposite extreme. And - he really is quite abnormally plain. Then there was that Mr. Snood, who - was curate when I was down last year. The man with the very red hands. (<i>These - acid comments are too much for Hester, who flounces out angrily. Mrs. - Clouston looks up for a moment, wondering what is the meaning of this - sudden disappearance. Then continues unmoved.</i>) I’m afraid the clergy - aren’t what they were in our young days, Jane. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I don’t think I’ve noticed any falling off. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - It is there all the same. I’m sure Hugo would agree with me. Of course, - curates are paid next to nothing. Still, I think the Vicar might be more - happy in his choice. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I believe the poor like him. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(to whom this seems of small importance compared with his shocking - social disabilities)</i> - </p> - <p> - Very likely.... Do please keep still, Jane, and don’t fidget with that - book. What is the matter with you? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I’m a little nervous this morning. Hugo’s illness... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Hugo’s almost well now. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Still the anxiety... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Nonsense, Jane. Anxiety is not at all a thing to give way to, especially - when there’s no longer anything to be anxious about. Hugo’s practically - well now. Dr. Rolt seems to have frightened us all quite unnecessarily. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I suppose it’s difficult to tell. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Of course, it’s difficult. Otherwise no one would send for a doctor. What - are doctors for if they can’t tell when a case is serious and when it is - not? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - But if he didn’t know? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Then he <i>ought</i> to have known. Next time Hugo is ill you’d better - send to Bridport. <i>(Mrs. De Mullin drops book on table with a clatter)</i> - Really, Jane, what are you doing? Throwing books about like that! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - It slipped out of my hand.,, - </p> - <p> - [<i>Rises and goes up to window restlessly.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Is anything wrong? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(hesitating)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, the truth is I’ve done something, Harriet, and now I’m not sure - whether I ought to have done it. Mrs. Clouston - </p> - <p> - Done what? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(dolorously)</i> - </p> - <p> - I’m afraid you won’t approve. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Perhaps you’d better tell me what it is. Then we shall know. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - The fact is some one is coming here this morning, Harriet—to see - Hugo. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - To see Hugo? Who is it? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(with horror)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Janet! She wouldn’t <i>dare!</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(dolorously)</i> - </p> - <p> - I sent for her, Harriet. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - You <i>sent</i> for her? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. When Hugo was first taken ill and Dr. Rolt seemed to think the attack - was so serious.... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Dr. Rolt was a fool. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Very likely, Harriet. But he said Hugo might die. And he said if there was - any one Hugo would wish to see.... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - But would Hugo wish to see Janet? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I thought he might. After all Janet <i>is</i> his daughter. Mrs. Clouston - </p> - <p> - I thought he said he would never see her again? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - He did <i>say</i> that, of course. But that was eight years ago. And, of - course, he wasn’t ill then. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - When did you send for her? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Three days ago. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Why didn’t she come <i>then</i>, if she was coming at all? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She was away from home. That was so unfortunate. If she had come when Hugo - was ill in bed it might have been all right. But now that he’s almost well - again.... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - When did you hear she was coming? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Only this morning. Here is what she says.. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Produces telegram from pocket</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(reads)</i> - </p> - <p> - “Telegram delayed. Arrive mid-day. Seagrave.” Seagrave? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. She calls herself Mrs. Seagrave now. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nods)</i> - </p> - <p> - On account of the child, I suppose. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I suppose so. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - I never could understand how Janet came to go so wrong. <i>(Mrs. De Mullin - sighs.)</i> None of the <i>De Mullins</i> have ever done such a thing - before. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(plaintively)</i> - </p> - <p> - I’m sure she doesn’t get it from <i>my</i> family. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Well, she must have got it from <i>somewhere</i>. She’s not in the least - like a De Mullin. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(lamentably</i>) - </p> - <p> - I believe it was all through bicycling. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Bicycling? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. When girls usen’t to scour about the country as they do now these - things didn’t happen. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(severely)</i> - </p> - <p> - I never approved of Janet’s bicycling you remember, Jane. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Nor did I, Harriet. But it was no use. Janet only laughed. Janet never - would do what she was told about things even when she was quite a child. - She was so very obstinate. She was always getting some idea or other into - her head. And when she did nothing would prevent her from carrying it out. - At one time she wanted to <i>teach</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - I remember. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She said girls ought to go out and earn their own living like boys. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - What nonsense! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - So Hugo said. But Janet wouldn’t listen. Finally we had to let her go over - and teach the Aldenham girls French three times a week, just to keep her - amused. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(thoughtfully)</i> - </p> - <p> - It was strange you never could find out who the father was. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sighs)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes. She wouldn’t tell us. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - You should have made her tell you. Hugo should have insisted on it. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hugo did insist. He was terribly angry with her. He sent her to her room - and said she was not to come down till she told us. But it was no use. - Janet just stayed in her room till we had all gone to bed and then took - the train to London. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - You should have locked her door. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - We did. She got out of the window. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Got out of the window! The girl might have been killed. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. But Janet was always fond of climbing. And she was never afraid of - anything. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - But there’s no late train to London. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She caught the mail at Weymouth, I suppose. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Do you mean to say she <i>walked</i> all the way to Weymouth in the middle - of the night? Why, it’s twelve miles. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She had her bicycle as I said. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Tck!... How did you know she went to London? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She wrote from there, for her things. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - I wonder she wasn’t ashamed. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - So Hugo said. However, he said I might send them. But he made me send a - letter with the things to say that he would have nothing more to do with - her and that she was not to write again. For a time she didn’t write. - Nearly five months. Then, when her baby was born, she wrote to tell me. - That was how I knew she had taken the name of Seagrave. She mentioned it. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Did you show the letter to Hugo? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - What did he say? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Nothing. He just read it and gave it back to me without a word. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - That’s the last you’ve heard of her, I suppose? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Oh no, Harriet. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Do you mean to say she goes <i>on</i> writing? And you allow her? When - Hugo said she was not to? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(meekly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes. Not often, Harriet. Only occasionally. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - She has no business to write at all. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Her letters are quite short. Sometimes I wish they were longer. They - really tell one nothing about herself, though I often ask her. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - You <i>ask</i> her! Then <i>you</i> write too! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I answer her letters, of course. Otherwise she wouldn’t go on writing. ‘ - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Really, Jane, I’m surprised at you. So you’ve actually been corresponding - with Janet all these years—and never told <i>me!</i> I think you’ve - behaved very badly. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I didn’t like to, Harriet. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Didn’t like to! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - And as you don’t think I <i>ought</i> to hear from her.... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON. - </h4> - <p> - I don’t think you ought to hear from her, of course. But as you do hear - naturally I should like to have seen the letters. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I didn’t know that, Harriet. In fact, I thought you would rather not. When - a dreadful thing like this happens in a family it seems best not to write - about it or to speak of it either, doesn’t it? Hugo and I never speak of - it. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Does Hugo know you hear from her? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I think not. I have never told him. Nor Hester. I’m sure Hester would - disapprove. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - My dear Jane, what <i>can</i> it matter whether Hester approves or not? - Hester knows nothing about such things. At <i>her</i> age! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hester is twenty-eight. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Exactly. A girl like that. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sighs)</i> - </p> - <p> - Girls have such very strong opinions nowadays. Mrs. Clouston - </p> - <p> - What does Janet live on? Teaching? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I suppose so. She had her Aunt Miriam’s legacy, of four hundred pounds of - course. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Only four hundred pounds. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - I never approved of that legacy, Jane. Girls oughtn’t to have money left - them. It makes them too independent. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Aunt Miriam was always so fond of Janet. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Then she should have left the money to Hugo. Fathers are the proper people - to leave money to. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hugo did have the <i>management</i> of the money—till Janet was - twenty-one. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Why only till she was twenty-one? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - It was so in Aunt Miriam’s will. Of course, Hugo would have gone on - managing it for her. It was very little trouble as it was all in Consols. - But Janet said she would rather look after it for herself. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Ridiculous! As if girls could possibly manage money! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - So Hugo said. But Janet insisted. So she got her way. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - What did she do with it? Spend it? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - No. Put it into a Railway, she said. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - A Railway! How dangerous! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She said she would prefer it. She said Railways sometimes went up. Consols - never. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - She lost it all, of course? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I don’t know, Harriet. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - You don’t <i>know?</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - No. I never liked to ask. Hugo was rather hurt about the whole thing, so - the subject was never referred to. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Let me see. The child must be eight years old by now. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Just eight. It will be nine years next March since Janet went away. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - What did she call him? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Johnny. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Johnny! None of the De Mullins have ever been called <i>Johnny</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Perhaps it was his father’s name. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Perhaps so <i>(pause)</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Do you think I ought to tell Hugo about Janet’s coming? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Certainly. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I thought perhaps.... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Nonsense, Jane. Of course, he must be told. You ought to have told him - from the very beginning? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Do you mean when I sent the telegram? But Hugo was unconscious. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - As soon as he recovered consciousness then. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I did mean to. But he seemed so weak, and Dr. Rolt said any excitement.... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Dr. Rolt! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(goaded)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, I couldn’t tell that Dr. Rolt knew so little about Hugo’s illness, - could I? And I was afraid of the shock. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Still, he should have been told at once. It was the only chance. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. I see that now. But I was afraid of the shock, as I said. So I put it - off. And then, when I didn’t hear from Janet, I thought I would wait. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Why? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You see I didn’t know whether she was coming. And if she didn’t come, of - course there was no necessity for telling Hugo anything about it. I’m - afraid he’ll be very angry. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - At any rate, you must tell him now. The sooner the better. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(meekly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Very well, Harriet. If you think so. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - You had better go up to him at once. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Mrs. De Mullin goes to the door on the left, opens it, then draws back - hastily</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Here <i>is</i> Hugo. He’s just coming across the hall. With Hester. How - unlucky. - </p> - <p> - MRS. CLOUSTON I don’t see that it matters. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I’d rather not have told him before Hester. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Mrs. Clouston shrugs her shoulders. A moment later Hugo enters. He - leans on a stick and Hester’s arm. He looks weak and pale and altogether - extremely sorry for himself, obviously a nervous and a very tiresome - patient.</i> - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Carefully, father. That’s right. Will you lie on the sofa? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(fretfully)</i> - </p> - <p> - No. Put me in the armchair. I’m tired of lying down. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Very well. Let me help you. There. Wait a moment. I’ll fetch you some - pillows. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Props him up on pillows in an armchair.</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Thank you. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Lies back exhausted and closes his eyes.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(going to him)</i> - </p> - <p> - How are you feeling now, Hugo? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Very weak. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I wonder if you ought to have come down? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - It won’t make any difference. Nothing will make any difference any more, - Jane. I shan’t last much longer. I’m worn out. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Father! - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes, Hester. Worn out <i>(with a sort of melancholy pride)</i>. None of - the De Mullins have been strong. I’m the last of them. The last of the De - Mullins. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Come, Hugo, you mustn’t talk in that morbid way. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I’m not morbid, Harriet. But I feel tired, tired. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You’ll be better in a day or two. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - No, Jane. I shall never be better. Never in <i>this</i> world <i>(pause).</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nervously)</i> - </p> - <p> - Hugo... there’s something... something I have to tell you.... - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - What is it, Jane? <i>(fretfully)</i>. What have you been keeping from me? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I ought to have told you before. Only I didn’t like... - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Is it something about my illness? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Oh no, Hugo. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(relieved)</i> - </p> - <p> - I thought Dr. Rolt might have said something. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - It’s nothing of that kind. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(peevishly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, well, what is it? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hugo, some one is coming here to-day, to see <i>you</i>. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - To see <i>me?</i> Who? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You won’t be angry, Hugo? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(testily)</i> - </p> - <p> - How can I possibly say that, Jane, when I don’t know who it is? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hugo, it’s... (Bell rings loudly.) Harriet, there’s the bell! I wonder if - it’s she? Do you think it is? - </p> - <p> - [<i>All look towards the door on the right, expectantly.</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(querulously)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, Jane? <i>Am</i> I to hear who this visitor is or am I not? - </p> - <h4> - ELLEN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(showing in a lady leading a little boy by the hand)</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. SEAGRAVE - </h4> - <p> - [<i>Enter Janet and Johnny!. Janet is a very handsome woman of - six-and-thirty. She is admirably dressed, but her clothes are quiet and in - excellent taste, dark in colour and plain in cut but expensive. Her hat is - particularly tasteful, but also quiet. Her clothes are in marked contrast - to those of her mother and sister which are of the homeliest description - and were probably made in the village. Johnny is a well-grown youngster of - eight in a sailor suit.</i> - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shocked)</i> - </p> - <p> - Mother! - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet, my dear! <i>(cry of welcome)</i>. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Father! <i>(Drops Johnny’s hand, comes rapidly to him, falls on one knee - and kisses him impulsively, patting his left hand with her right.)</i> How - are you? Better? <i>(holding out her left hand to her mother but still - kneeling)</i>. How do you do, mother dear? <i>(Mrs. De Mullin takes it. - Puts her other hand on Janet’s shoulder.)</i> I should have come before, - father, directly you sent for me. But your telegram was delayed. I was - away from home. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nods)</i> - </p> - <p> - I see. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Have you been very ill, father? And did you frighten them all dreadfully? - How naughty of you! - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Silly Janet! Let me look at you, my dear. <i>(Looks at her face as she - holds it up.)</i> You’re not much changed, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Nor are you, father. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - A little greyer, perhaps. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No! Not a hair! - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Well, my dear, Pm glad you’ve come. We parted in anger, but that’s all - over now. Forgotten and forgiven. Eh? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Forgotten and forgiven <i>(rises)</i>. How are <i>you</i>, Aunt - Harriet? I didn’t see you. <i>(Eagerly)</i> Hester! - </p> - <p> - <i>[Goes to her impulsively, holding out her hand. Hester takes it coldly. - Janet tries to draw her towards her. Hester resists. She drops her hand - and Hester turns away.]</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Who is that? <i>(pointing to Johnny)</i>. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - (turning to him) - </p> - <p> - That is Johnny. My son. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - My grandson? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. I <i>had</i> to bring him, father. We were away from home and there - was no one to leave him with. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I’m glad you brought him. Come here, Johnny. Don’t be afraid. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(in his confident treble)</i> - </p> - <p> - I’m not afraid. Why should I be afraid? - </p> - <p> - <i>[Goes to him</i>. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(taking his hand)</i> - </p> - <p> - Say “How do you do, grandfather.” - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - How do you do, grandfather? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Will you give me a kiss, Johnny? - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - If you like, grandfather. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Kisses him.</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - That’s a good boy. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Kiss your grandmother too, Johnny. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Mrs. De Mullin snatches him up and kisses him passionately. Then holds - him a little way off and looks at him admiringly.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - What a fine little fellow, Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(proudly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Isn’t he, mother? And so strong and healthy! He’s hardly had a day’s - illness since he was born. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(who has been staring at the pictures on the walls, holding his - grandmother by one hand)</i>. - </p> - <p> - Who are all these old men, grandfather? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Your ancestors, my boy. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - What’s ancestors? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Your forefathers. Your mother’s forefathers, - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Is that old man in the wig an ancestor? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. That is Anthony De Mullin, your great-great-grandfather. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - What was <i>he?</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - (puzzled) - </p> - <p> - <i>What</i> was he? I don’t know that he was anything in particular. He - was just a gentleman. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(disappointed)</i> - </p> - <p> - Is that all? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Don’t make any mistake, my boy. It’s a great thing to be descended from - gentle-people, a thing to be proud of and to be thankful for. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Mother says the great thing is for every one to be of some use in the - world. Are gentle-people of more use in the world than other people, - grandfather? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Certainly. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - And were all these old men gentle-people? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - All of them. And you must grow up like them. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - They’re very <i>ugly</i>, grandfather <i>(pause)</i>. What did they do? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - They lived down here at Brendon. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Nothing else? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - They looked after their land. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Had they much land? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - A great deal. At one time the De Mullins owned all the land about here. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - How much do they own now? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sighs)</i> - </p> - <p> - Not very much, I’m afraid. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Then they can’t have looked after it very well, can they, grandfather? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(feeling the strain of this conversation)</i> - </p> - <p> - Now, Hugo, do you think you ought to talk any more? Why not go upstairs - for a little and lie down? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Perhaps I will, Jane. I <i>am</i> a little tired. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Shall I go with father? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - No. I will. Come, Hugo <i>(helps him up)</i>. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Will you come, with me, Johnny? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(hastily)</i> - </p> - <p> - No, Hugo. He will only disturb you. Stay down here, Johnny, with your - mother. Now then. Carefully. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Leads De Mullin off by the door on the left. There is a pause, during - which the remaining occupants of the room obviously have nothing in - particular to say to each other. At last Mrs. Clouston speaks.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Well, Janet, how have you been all these years? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nonchalantly)</i> - </p> - <p> - All right, Aunt Harriet. And you? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Pretty well, thanks. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Are you still living down at Bath? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Yes. You live in London, Jane tells me. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - What do you do there? Teach? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Oh no. Why should I be teaching? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Jane said you wanted to teach at one time. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - That was years ago. Before I left Brendon. soon gave up that idea. No. I - keep a shop. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - A shop! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. A hat-shop - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Good heavens! A De Mullin in a hat-shop! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(a little maliciously)</i> - </p> - <p> - Not a De Mullin, Aunt Harriet. A Seagrave. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Did Mr. Seagrave keep a hat-shop? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Mr. Seagrave?... oh, I see. No. It’s not a man’s hat shop. It’s a lady’s - <i>(takes off hat)</i>. This is one of ours. What do you think of it, - Hester? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(frostily)</i> - </p> - <p> - It looks very expensive. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(looking at it critically)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes, I own I’m rather pleased with it. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(acidly)</i> - </p> - <p> - You seem to be able to dress very well altogether, in spite of the shop. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(correcting her)</i> - </p> - <p> - Because of it, Aunt Harriet. That’s the advantage of being what is called - “in trade.” If I were a school teacher or a governess or something genteel - of that kind I could only afford to dress like a pauper. But as I keep a - shop I can dress like a lady. Clothes are a question of money, after all, - aren’t they? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(contemptuously)</i> - </p> - <p> - If one is in a shop it doesn’t matter how one dresses. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - On the contrary if one is in a shop it matters a great deal. A girl in a - shop <i>must</i> dress well. The business demands it. If you ever start a - hat-shop, Aunt Harriet, you’ll have to dress very differently. Otherwise - nobody will buy your hats. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Indeed? Fortunately I’ve no intention of starting a shop of any kind. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(blandly)</i> - </p> - <p> - No! Well, I expect you’re wise. I doubt if you’d make a success of it. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Loud ring heard off.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(rather flustered—gasps)</i> - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - I hope that’s not a visitor. <i>(Janet stares Then laughs good-humouredly. - Aunt Harriet’s nervous desire to keep her out of the way of visitors - strikes her as amusing.)</i> What are you laughing at, Janet? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shrugs)</i> - </p> - <p> - Nothing, Aunt Harriet. - </p> - <h4> - ELLEN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(showing in)</i> - </p> - <p> - Miss Deanes. Mr. Brown. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Miss Deanes is a bulky, red-faced, shortsighted woman of forty-two, - very fussy and absurd in manner, who talks very fast. Brown carries a - book.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - How do you do, Mrs. Clouston. <i>Such</i> a piece of news! I felt I <i>must</i> - tell you. I brought Mr. Brown with me. He was just leaving a book for you, - Hester, so I made him come in. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Shakes hands with Hester.</i> - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Here it is, Miss De Mullin. It’s the one you wanted to borrow. <i>Blore on - the Creeds</i>. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Thank you. - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - <i>(seeing Janet for first time)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet! Is that you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, Miss Deanes. How are you? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Shakes hands.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - Good gracious, child, when did you come? Why, you’ve not been down to - Brendon for years. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - It is a long time, isn’t it? - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - And who is this young gentleman? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Noticing Johnny who is holding Janet’s hand and staring at Miss - Deanes.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(calmly)</i> - </p> - <p> - That is my son. Shake hands with Miss Deanes, Johnny. - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - <i>(astonished)</i> - </p> - <p> - Your son! There now! And I never knew you were even married! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quite at her ease)</i> - </p> - <p> - Didn’t you! - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - No. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nervously)</i> - </p> - <p> - I forgot. I haven’t introduced you. Mr. Brown—Mrs. Seagrave. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(bows)</i> - </p> - <p> - How do you do. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(turning to Miss Deanes again)</i> - </p> - <p> - And now what is your piece of news, Miss Deanes? - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - <i>(volubly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Oh yes. I <i>must</i> tell you. You’d never guess. Somebody <i>else</i> is - engaged to be married, <i>(to Janet)</i> Who do you think? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I’ve no idea. - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - Bertha Aldenham—to Mr. Bulstead. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(starts)</i> - </p> - <p> - Mr. Bulstead? - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - Yes. But I forgot. <i>You</i> wouldn’t know <i>them</i>. They didn’t come - here till long after you went away. They bought Brendon Park from the - Malcolms three years ago. You remember the Malcolms, Janet? Janet <i>(whose - attention has wandered)</i> - </p> - <p> - Eh? Oh yes, of course. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Which Mr. Bulstead is it? The eldest? - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Montague. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(under her breath)</i> - </p> - <p> - Monty Bulstead! Engaged! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Are the Aldenhams pleased? - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - Very, I expect. The Bulsteads are so rich, you see. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Does he live down here; this Mr. Montagu Bulstead, I mean? - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - Oh no. He’s here on leave. He’s in the army. He only got back three months - ago <i>(with a little giggle)</i>. He and Bertha haven’t taken long to - settle things, have they? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No, they haven’t taken long. - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - But I dare say he <i>will</i> live here when he’s married. As the - Bulsteads are so rich.- The father makes frilling and lace and so on. All - those things people used to make so much better by hand. And Bertha may - not care about army life. I know I shouldn’t. <i>(Janet smiles - discreetly.)</i> It’s not always very <i>nice</i>, is it? - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(to Johnny who has been staring at him roundeyed across the room, with - heavy geniality)</i>. - </p> - <p> - Well, young man. Who are you staring at, eh? Do <i>you</i> want to talk to - me? - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quite simply, in his high piping treble)</i> - </p> - <p> - No, thank you. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Sh! Johnny! You don’t mean that. Go to Mr. Brown when he speaks to you. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Very well, Mummie. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Does so slowly</i>. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(taking his hands)</i> - </p> - <p> - Now then what shall we talk about, you and I? - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - I don’t know. - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Don’t you? Suppose we see if you can say your catechism then? Would you - like <i>that</i>? - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - What’s catechism? - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - Come, Johnny, I’m sure your mother has taught you your catechism.. Can you - repeat your “Duty towards your Neighbour”? <i>(Johnny shakes his head - emphatically)</i>. Try “My duty towards my neighbour.... - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Mother says it’s every one’s duty to be healthy and to be happy! Is that - what you mean? - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(scandalized)</i> - </p> - <p> - No! No! - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Well, that’s what mother taught me. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(coming to the rescue)</i> - </p> - <p> - I’m afraid he doesn’t know his catechism yet, Mr. Brown. You see he’s only - eight. <i>(Brown bows stiffly.)</i> Run away, Johnny, and play in the - garden for a little. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Leads him to the door in the bay.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - All right, Mummie. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Johnny runs out into the garden. A certain relief is perceptible on - his departure. It is felt that his interview with Mr. Brown has not been a - success.</i>... - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - <i>(who feels that a change of subject will be only tactful)</i> - </p> - <p> - There now, Hester! I do believe you’ve never asked after Dicky! He’ll be - so offended! - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(smiling)</i> - </p> - <p> - Has Dicky been ill again? I thought you said he was better yesterday. - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - He was. But he had a relapse, poor <i>darling</i>. I had to sit up all - last night with him! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - What has been the matter with him? - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - Some sort of chill, Dr. Rolt said. I was <i>dreadfully</i> anxious. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - What a pity! ‘Colds are such troublesome things for children. - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - (puzzled) - </p> - <p> - Children? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. You were speaking of a child, weren’t you? Miss Deanes - </p> - <p> - Oh no. Dicky is my <i>cockatoo</i>. He’s the <i>sweetest</i> bird. Talks - quite like a human being. And never a coarse expression. That’s so unusual - with cockatoos. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Indeed? - </p> - <h4> - MISS DEANES - </h4> - <p> - Yes. The voyage, you see. They come all the way from South America and - generally they pick up the most dreadful language, poor lambs—from - the sailors. - </p> - <p> - But Dicky didn’t. He has such a pure mind <i>(rising)</i>. And now I - really must be going. I have all kinds of people I want to tell about Mr. - Bulstead’s engagement. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Shaking hands with Mrs. Clouston and Janet.</i> - </p> - <h4> - BROWN - </h4> - <p> - I must be off too. Wait one moment, Miss Deanes. Good-bye, Mrs. Clouston. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Shakes hands with Mrs. Clouston and bows stiffly to Janet. He has not - yet forgiven Johnny for not knowing his catechism.</i> - </p> - <p> - <i>(To Hester.)</i> - </p> - <p> - Good-bye, Miss De Mullin. Shall I see you at Evensong? - </p> - <p> - <i>[Shakes hands with Hester.</i> - </p> - <p> - I expect so. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Poof! - </p> - <p> - <i>[Brown and Miss Deanes go out.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - What a fool Miss Deanes is! - </p> - <h4> - MRS CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(indifferently)</i> - </p> - <p> - She always was, wasn’t she? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I suppose so. Going on in that way about her ridiculous cockatoo! And that - <i>hideous</i> little curate! - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - I don’t see why you should sneer at all my friends. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Are they your friends, Hester? Then I won’t sneer at them. But you can’t - call Mr. Brown <i>handsome</i>, can you? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Mr. Brown is a very good man and works very hard among the poor. That’s - better than being handsome. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. But less agreeable, isn’t it? However, if <i>you</i> like him there’s - an end of it. But he needn’t have begun asking Johnny his catechism the - very first time he met him. I don’t call it good manners, - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - How was he to know the poor child was being brought up to be a little - heathen? - </p> - <p> - <i>[Takes up her hat and cape and begins putting them on.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shrugs)</i> - </p> - <p> - How, indeed! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Are you going out, Hester? Lunch will be ready in half an hour. . - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Only to take Mrs. Wason her soup, Aunt Harriet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(looking curiously at Hester)</i> - </p> - <p> - Do you want to marry Mr. Brown, Hester? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - My dear Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, Aunt Harriet, there’s nothing to be ashamed of if she does. Do you, - Hester? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Why do you ask such a question? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Never mind. Only answer it <i>(pause)</i>. You do like him, don’t you? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - I’ve a great respect for Mr. Brown. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Don’t blush, my dear. I dare say that’s much the same thing. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - I won’t talk to you about it. You only sneer. Janet - </p> - <p> - I wasn’t sneering. Come, Hester, don’t be cross. Why shouldn’t we be - friends? I might help you. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - How could <i>you</i> help me? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(looking quizzically at poor Hester’s headgear)</i> - </p> - <p> - I might make you a hat, my dear. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Mr. Brown doesn’t notice those things. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - All men notice those things, Hester. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(with a sneer)</i> - </p> - <p> - I suppose that’s why <i>you</i> wear such fine clothes. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quite good-humoured)</i> - </p> - <p> - That’s it. Fine feathers make fine birds. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Well, <i>I</i> call it shameless. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - My dear Hester, you’re always being ashamed of things. You always were, I - remember. What is there to be ashamed of in that? What on earth were women - given pretty faces and pretty figures for if not to make men admire them - and want to marry them? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(acidly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, <i>your</i> plan hasn’t been very successful so far, anyhow! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quietly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Nor has yours, Hester. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Hester makes exclamation of impatience and seems about to reply - angrily. Then thinks better of it and goes out without a word. Janet - follows her retreat with her eyes and smiles half cynically, half - compassionately. The Curtain falls.</i> - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - ACT II - </h2> - <p> - <i>Scene:</i> On the edge of Brendon Forest. - </p> - <p> - <i>Time:</i> three days later. A road runs along the hack of the stage - front which it is separated by a fence and high hedge. In this hut - somewhat to the right is a stile and also a gate. Round the trunk of a - large tree to the left is a rough wooden seat. The stage is empty when the - curtain rises. Fhen enter Mrs. De Mullin, Janet and Johnny. They approach - stile from the left and come through gate. There isan exit on the right of - the stage through the Forest. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I don’t think I’ll come any farther, mother. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You won’t come up to the house? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No, thanks <i>(rather grimly)</i>. I don’t want to see Mrs. Bulstead. And - I’m sure Mrs. Bulstead doesn’t want to see me. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I wish Hester could have come. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Why couldn’t she? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She’s at the church putting up the decorations. It’s the Harvest - Thanksgiving to-morrow. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(laughing)</i> - </p> - <p> - Mr. Brown! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet, I told you you weren’t to laugh at Hester about Mr. Brown. It’s not - kind. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(lightly)</i> - </p> - <p> - It’s all right mother. Hester’s not here. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Still, I don’t like it, dear. It’s not quite... - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(soothing her)</i> - </p> - <p> - Not quite <i>nice</i>. I know, mother. Not the way really refined and - ladylike young women talk. But I’m only quite a common person who sells - hats. You can’t expect all these refinements from <i>me!</i> - </p> - <p> - [<i>Mrs. De Mullin sighs.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Are you going to turn back? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Not at once. I’ll wait for you here a little with Johnny in case they’re - out. Why, they’ve put a seat here. [<i>She sits on the side farthest from - the road.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Usen’t there to be one? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No. Nor a gate in my time. Only a stile. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Very likely, dear. I don’t remember. I don’t often come this way. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nods)</i> - </p> - <p> - I often used to come along it in the old days. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I dare say. Well, I must be getting on to my call or I shall be late. - You’re sure you won’t come? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Quite, mother. Good-bye. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Mrs. De Mullin goes of through the forest.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Where’s grandmother going, Mummie? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Up to the big house. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - What big house? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Brendon Park. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Mayn’t I go up to the big house too? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No, dear. You’re to stay with mother. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Who lives at the big house? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Nobody you know, dear. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - That’s why I asked, Mummie. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, don’t ask any more, sonny. Mother’s rather tired. Run away and play, - there’s a good boy. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Kisses him.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Very well, Mummie. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Johnny disappears into the wood. Janet falls into a brown study. - Presently a footstep is heard coming along the roady but she seems to - notice nothing. Then a young man climbs over the stile. He starts as he - sees her and draws back, then advances eagerly, holding out his hand.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Janet, is that <i>you!</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(smiling)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(astonished)</i> - </p> - <p> - JANET! Here! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nodding over his shoulder)</i> - </p> - <p> - <i>Our</i> stile, Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Our stile. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nods)</i> - </p> - <p> - The stile where you and I first met. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(relapsing for a moment into something like sentiment)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes. I thought I must see it again—for the sake of old times. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - How long ago it all seems! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(matter of fact)</i> - </p> - <p> - It is a longish time, you know. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(thoughtfully)</i> - </p> - <p> - I believe that was the happiest month of my life, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Was it, Monty? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes <i>(pause)</i>. I say, when did you come down? You don’t <i>live</i> - at home any longer, do you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No. I only came down three days ago. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - By Jove it <i>is</i> good to see you again. Why, it’s eight years since we - used to be together, you and I. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Nearly nine. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes... You’re not coming to live down here again, are you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No; why? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I thought perhaps... - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(cynically)</i> - </p> - <p> - Would you dislike it very much if I did, Monty? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Of course not. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Confess. You <i>did</i> feel it would be rather awkward? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Well, of course... - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - However you can set your mind at rest. I’m not. [<i>His relief at this - intelligence enables him to realize the pleasure he is getting from seeing - her again.</i>) - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I say, Janet, how well you’re looking! I believe you’re handsomer than - ever. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - (smiling) - </p> - <p> - Am I? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - You know you are. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Pause. He looks at her admiringly. She turns away with a little smile.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(feeling that they are getting on to dangerous ground)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, Monty. Where have you been these eight years? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Abroad with my regiment. We’ve been ordered all over the place. I’ve been - home on leave, of course. But not for the last three years. Not since - father bought the Park. I’ve never been at Brendon since ... <i>(pause)</i>. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Since we were here? Don’t blush, Monty. <i>(He nods shamefacedly.)</i> How - did he come to buy the place? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - It was just a chance. He saw it advertised, came and looked at it and - bought it. He’s no idea I was ever at Brendon before <i>(rather bitter - laugh)</i>. None of them have. I have to pretend not to know my way about. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Why? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - It seems safer. <i>(Janet nods.)</i> Sometimes I almost forget to keep it - up. I’m such a duffer about things. But I’ve managed hitherto. And now, of - course, it’s all right as I’ve been here three months. I may be supposed - to know the beastly place by this time. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Beastly? You’re not very polite. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Monty laughs shamefacedly</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - You got my note, didn’t you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - What note?... Oh, eight years ago, you mean? Yes. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I left it with the woman at the lodgings. As you were coming over that - afternoon, I thought it safer than sending a message. And of course I - daren’t telegraph. <i>(Janet nods.)</i> I was awfully sick at having to go - away like that. All in a moment. Without even saying good-bye. But I had - to. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Of course. Was your mother badly hurt? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - No. Only stunned. That was such rot. If people get chucked out of a - carriage they must expect to get stunned. But of course they couldn’t - know. The telegram just said “Mother hurt. Carriage accident. Come at - once.” It got to me at the lodgings a couple of hours before you were - coming. I had just time to chuck my things into a bag and catch the train. - I wanted to come back after the mater was all right again. But I couldn’t - very well, could I? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Why not? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Well, the regiment was to sail in less than three weeks and the mater - would have thought it rather rough if I’d gone away again. I’d been away - six weeks as it was. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Oh yes. Of course. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(with half a sigh)</i> - </p> - <p> - To think if I hadn’t happened to be riding along that road and seen you at - the stile and asked my way, you and I might never have met. What a chance - life is! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nods)</i> - </p> - <p> - Just a chance <i>(pause)</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Why did you go away, Janet? You weren’t going the last time I saw you. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Wasn’t I? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - No. At least you said nothing about it. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I didn’t know I was going then. Not for certain. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Why <i>did</i> you go? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quietly)</i> I had to, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(puzzled)</i> - </p> - <p> - You had to? <i>(Janet nods.)</i>But why? - </p> - <p> - Mother found out. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - About us? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. And she told father. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(genuinely distressed)</i> Oh, Janet! I’m so sorry. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shrugs)</i> - </p> - <p> - It couldn’t be helped, - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Does he know who it was? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Who <i>you</i> were? No. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - You didn’t tell him? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - MONTY! As if I should. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I don’t know. Girls generally do. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>I</i> didn’t. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - No. I suppose you wouldn’t. But you’re different from most girls. Do you - know there was always something rather splendid about you, Janet? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - (curtseys) - </p> - <p> - Thank you. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I wonder he didn’t <i>make</i> you tell. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - He did try of course. That was why I ran away. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I see. Where did you go to? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - London. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - To London? All alone? (Janet nods) Why did you do that? And why didn’t you - let me know? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shrugs)</i> - </p> - <p> - You were out of England by that time. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - But why London? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I had to go somewhere. And it seemed better to go where I shouldn’t be - known. Besides it’s easier to be lost sight of in a crowd. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - But what did you do when you got there? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(calmly)</i> - </p> - <p> - I got a place in a shop, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - A shop? You! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, a hat-shop, in Regent Street. My dear Monty, don’t gape like that. - Hat-shops are perfectly respectable places. Almost too respectable to - judge by the fuss two of them made about employing <i>me</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - What do you mean? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, when I applied to them for work they naturally asked if I had ever - worked in a hat-shop before. And when I said “No” they naturally asked why - I wanted to begin. In the innocence of my heart I told them. Whereupon - they at once refused to employ me—not in the politest terms. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Poor Janet. What beastly luck! Still... - </p> - <p> - [<i>Hesitates.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, Monty? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I mean naturally they couldn’t be expected... - </p> - <p> - <i>(flustered)</i> - </p> - <p> - At least I don’t mean that exactly. - </p> - <p> - Only... [<i>Stops.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - My dear Monty, I quite understand what you mean. You needn’t trouble to be - explicit. Naturally they couldn’t be expected to employ an abandoned - person like me to trim hats. That was exactly their view. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - But I thought you said you <i>did</i> get a place in a shop? Janet - </p> - <p> - Yes. But not at either of <i>those</i> shops. They were <i>far</i> too - virtuous. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - How did you do it? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Told lies, Monty. I believe that’s how most women get employment. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Told lies? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. I invented a husband, recently deceased, bought several yards of - crêpe and a wedding ring. This is the ring. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Takes off glove.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Oh, Janet, how beastly for you! - </p> - <p> - [<i>Janet shrugs</i>. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(laughing)</i> - </p> - <p> - Everything seems to be “Beastly” to you, Monty. Brendon and telling lies - and lots of other things. Luckily I’m less superfine. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Didn’t they find out? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No. That was why I decided to be a widow. It made inquiries more - difficult. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I should have thought it made them easier. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - On the contrary. You can’t cross-question a widow about a recent - bereavement. If you do she cries. I always used to look tearful directly - my husband’s name was even mentioned. So they gave up mentioning it. Women - are so boring when they will cry. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - They might have inquired from other people. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Why should they? Besides there was no one to inquire from. I called him - Seagrave—and drowned him at sea. You can’t ask questions of the - sharks. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Oh, Janet, how can you joke about it? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I couldn’t—then. I wanted work-too badly. But I can now—with - your kind permission, I mean. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - And you’ve been at the shop ever since? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Not <i>that</i> shop. I was only there about six months —till baby - was born, in fact... - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(horrified)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet, there was a baby! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Of course there was a baby. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Oh, Janet! And you never wrote! Why didn’t you write? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I did think of it. But on the whole I thought I wouldn’t. It would have - been no good. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - No good? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - You were in India. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I was in England. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Not then. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - You ought to have written at once—directly your mother found out. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - One week after you sailed, Monty <i>(defiantly)</i>. Besides why should I - write? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Why? I could have married you, of course. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - If I’d asked you, you mean? Thank you, my dear Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - No, I don’t. Of course I should have married you. I <i>must</i> have - married you. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(looking at him thoughtfully)</i> - </p> - <p> - I wonder if you would. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Certainly I should. I should have been bound in honour. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I see. Then I’m glad I never wrote. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - You’re <i>glad?</i> Now? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. I’ve done some foolish things in my life, Monty, but none quite so - foolish as that. To marry a schoolboy, not because he loves you or wants - to marry you but because he thinks he’s “bound in honour.” No, thank you. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I don’t mean that. You know I don’t, Janet. I loved you, of course. That - goes without saying. I’d have married you like a shot before, only the - Governor would have made such a fuss. The Governor was so awfully - straitlaced about this sort of thing. When I was sent away from Eton he - made the most ghastly fuss. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Were you sent away from Eton for “this sort of thing”? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes—at least I don’t mean that either. But it was about a girl - there. He was frightfully wild. He threatened to cut me off if I ever did - such a thing again. Such rot! As if no one had ever been sent away from - school before! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(reflectively)</i> - </p> - <p> - I didn’t know you’d been sent away from Eton. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Didn’t you? I suppose I didn’t like to tell you-for fear of what you’d - think <i>(bitterly)</i>. I seem to have been afraid of everything in those - days. . - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Not <i>everything</i>, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Oh, you know what I mean. I was awfully afraid of the Governor, I - remember. I suppose all boys are if their parents rag them too much. But I - would have married you, Janet, if I’d known. I would honestly. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(blandly)</i> - </p> - <p> - What is the pay of a British subaltern, Monty? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - The Governor would have had to stump up, of course. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Poor Mr. Bulstead! He’d have <i>liked</i> that, I suppose? And what about - your poor unhappy colonel? And all the other little subalterns? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(obstinately)</i> - </p> - <p> - Still, you ought to have written. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quietly)</i> - </p> - <p> - <i>You</i> never wrote. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I couldn’t. You know that. You never would let me. That was why I couldn’t - send that note to you to tell you I was going away. You said my letters - would be noticed. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, I forgot that. That’s the result of having a father who is what is - called old-fashioned. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - What do you mean? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - All letters to the Manor House are delivered locked in a bag. They always - have been since the Flood, I believe, or at least since the invention of - the postal service. And, of course, father won’t have it altered, So every - morning there’s the ritual of unlocking this absurd bag. No one is allowed - to do that but father—unless he is ill. Then mother has the - privilege. And of course he. scrutinizes the outside of every letter and - directly it’s opened asks who it’s from and what’s inside it. Your letters - would have been noticed at once. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - How beastly! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - The penalty of having nothing to do, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I know. What a mess the whole thing is! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Just so. No. There was no way out of it except the hat-shop. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(remorsefully)</i> - </p> - <p> - It’s awfully rough on you, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Never mind. I dare say I wasn’t cut out for the wife of a subaltern, - Monty; whereas I make excellent hats. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(savagely)</i> - </p> - <p> - You’re still making the d———d things? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Only at another shop. The Regent Street place had no room for me when - I was well enough to go back to work. But the woman who kept it gave me a - recommendation to a friend who was starting in Hanover Street. A most - superior quarter for a hatshop, Monty. In fact <i>the</i> superior - quarter. Claude et Cie was the name. - </p> - <p> - (Monty <i>(rather shocked)</i> - </p> - <p> - A <i>French</i> shop? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No more French than you are, Monty. It was kept by a Miss Hicks, one of - the most thoroughly British people you can possibly imagine. But we called - ourselves Claude et Cie in order to be able to charge people more for - their hats. You can always charge fashionable women more for their clothes - if you pretend to be French. It’s one of the imbecilities of commerce. So - poor dear Miss Hicks became Madame Claude and none of our hats cost less - than seven guineas. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Do people buy hats at such a price? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Oh yes. Everybody in Society bought them. Claude et Cie was quite the rage - that Season. Nobody who was anybody went anywhere else. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - She must have made a great deal of money. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - On the contrary. She made nothing at all and narrowly escaped bankruptcy. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - But I don’t understand. If her hats were so dear and everybody bought - them? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Everybody <i>bought</i> them but nobody <i>paid</i> for them. In the - highest social circles I believe people never do pay for anything—certainly - not for their clothes. At least, nobody paid Miss Hicks, and at the end of - six months she was owed £1,200 and hadn’t a penny to pay her rent. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Why didn’t she <i>make</i> them pay. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - She did dun them, of course, but they only ordered more hats to keep her - quiet which didn’t help Miss Hicks much. And when she went on dunning them - they said they should withdraw their custom. In fact, she was in a - dilemma. If she let the bills run on she couldn’t pay her rent. And if she - asked her customers to pay their bills they ceased to be customers. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - How beastly! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Not again, Monty! - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - What <i>did</i> she do? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - She didn’t do anything. She was too depressed. She used to sit in the back - room where the hats were trimmed and weep over the materials, regardless - of expense. Finally things came to a crisis. The landlord threatened to - distrain for his rent. But just as it looked as if it was all over with - Claude et Cie a capitalist came to the rescue. <i>I</i> was the - capitalist. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - You? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. I’d an old Aunt once who was fond of me and left me a legacy when I - was seventeen. Four hundred pounds. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - That wouldn’t go very far. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Four hundred pounds goes a longish way towards setting up a shop. Besides, - it was nearly five hundred by that time. My shares had gone up. Well, I - and my five hundred pounds came to the rescue. I paid the rent and the - most clamorous of the creditors, and Miss Hicks and I became partners. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - But what was the good of that if the business was worth nothing? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - It was worth several hundred pounds to any one, who had the pluck to sue - half the British aristocracy. I sued them. It was tremendous fun. They - were simply furious. They talked as if they’d never been sued before! As - for Miss Hicks she wept more than ever and said I’d ruined the business. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Hadn’t you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - That business. Yes. But with the £1,200—or as much of it as we could - recover—we started a new one. A cheap hat-shop. Relatively cheap - that is-for Hanover Street. We charged two guineas a hat instead of seven, - 100 per cent, profit instead of... You can work it out for yourself. But - then our terms were strictly cash, so we made no bad debts. That was my - idea. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - But you said nobody ever paid for their hats. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Not in the highest social circles. But we drew our customers from the - middle classes who live in South Kensington and Bayswater, and are not too - haughty to pay for a hat if they see a cheap one. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - But wasn’t it a frightful risk? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(cheerfully)</i> - </p> - <p> - It was a risk, of course. But everything in life is a risk, isn’t it? And - it succeeded, as I felt sure it would. We’re quite a prosperous concern - nowadays, and I go over to Paris four times a year to see the latest - fashions. That, my dear Monty, is the history of Claude et Cie. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Pause.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - And you’ve never married, Janet? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No. - </p> - <p> - MONTY {hesitates) - </p> - <p> - Is it because...? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Because? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Because you still care for me? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Monty, don’t be vain. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(repelled)</i> - </p> - <p> - I didn’t mean it like that. Janet, don’t laugh. Of course, I’m glad if you - don’t care any more. At least, I suppose I ought to be glad. It would have - been dreadful if you had gone on caring all these years and I not known. - But did you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No, Monty, I didn’t. You may set your mind at rest. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - You’re sure? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Quite. I had too many other things to think of. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Do you mean that beastly shop? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quietly)</i> - </p> - <p> - I meant my baby. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>Our</i> baby. Is it alive? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Of course. What do you mean, Monty? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I thought, as you didn’t say... <i>(thoughtfully)</i> Poor little beast! - <i>(Janet makes gesture of protest.)</i> Well, it’s rough luck on the - little beggar, isn’t it? What’s become of him, Janet? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - What’s <i>become</i> of him! My dear Monty, what should have become of - him? He’s quite alive as I said and particularly thriving. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Do you mean he’s <i>living</i> with you!.. But, of course, I forgot, - you’re supposed to be married. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(correcting him)</i> - </p> - <p> - A widow, Monty. An inconsolable widow! - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Where is he? In London? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No. As a matter of fact he’s probably not fifty yards away. Over there. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Points towards the wood.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(jumping up)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet! <i>(nervously looking round)</i>. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(rallying him)</i> - </p> - <p> - Frightened, Monty? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Of course not <i>(shamefacedly)</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Just a little? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(regaining courage)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet, let me see him. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(amused)</i> - </p> - <p> - Would you like to? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Of course I should. He’s <i>my</i> baby as well as yours if it comes to - that. Do call him, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - All right, <i>(calls)</i> Johnny! <i>(pause)</i> John... ny! <i>(‘To - Monty)</i> You mustn’t tell him, you know. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Of course not. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(off r.)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes, Mummie. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Come here for a minute. Mother wants to speak to you. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(off)</i> - </p> - <p> - Very well, Mummie. <i>(Enters r.)</i> Oh, Mummie, I’ve found such a lot of - rabbits. You must come and see them. <i>(Seeing Monty for the first time, - stares at him.)</i> Oh! - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Come here, youngster. Come and let me look at you. <i>(Johnny goes to him - slowly. Monty, grasping both hands, draws him to him, looking at him long - and keenly.)</i> He’s like you, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Is he? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes. He has your eyes. So your name’s Johnny, young man? - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Well, Johnny, will you give me a kiss? <i>(Monty leans forward. He does - so.)</i> That’s right. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - And now, Mummie, come and look at my rabbits. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Not yet, dear. Mother’s busy just now. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - May I go back to them then? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Suppose I won’t let you go? - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - I’ll make you—and so will Mummie. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Plucky little chap. Off with you. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Kisses him again, then releases his hands. Johnny trots off r. again. - Monty follows him with his eyes. Pause.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, Monty, what do you think of him? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(enthusiastic)</i> - </p> - <p> - I think he’s <i>splendid</i>. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(proudly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Isn’t he? And such a sturdy little boy. He weighed ten pounds before he - was a month old. - </p> - <p> - I say, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shyly)</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(hesitates)</i> - </p> - <p> - You’ll let me kiss you once more, won’t you? For the last time?... <i>(she - hesitates)</i>. You don’t mind? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(heartily)</i> . - </p> - <p> - Of course not, Monty. You’re not <i>married</i> yet, you know. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - JANET! My dear, dear Janet! - </p> - <p> - [<i>Seizes her and kisses her fiercely.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(releasing herself gently)</i> - </p> - <p> - That’s enough, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(remorsefully)</i> - </p> - <p> - I’m afraid I behaved like an awful brute to you, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(lightly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Oh no. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes, I did. I ought to have married you. I ought to marry you still. On - account of the boy. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quite matter of fact)</i> - </p> - <p> - Oh well, you can’t do that now in any case, can you —as you’re - engaged to Bertha Aldenham. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - You’ve heard about that? Who told you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - A worthy lady called Miss Deanes. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I know. A regular sickener. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - My dear Monty! - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Sorry. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - She brought the good news. The very day I arrived as it happened. We’ve - hardly talked of anything else at the Manor House since—except - father’s illness, of course. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Why? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - What else is there to talk about—in Brendon? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - That’s true. Isn’t it... <i>(stops himself, looks at watch. Whistles.)</i> - Whew! [<i>Rises.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - What is it, Monty? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I say, Janet, I wonder if you’d mind going now? - </p> - <p> - Why? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - [<i>She rises too.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(awkwardly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, the fact is I’m expecting some one here directly. I... - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Bertha? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes. I was to meet her here at the stile at six. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>Our</i> stile, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes,... You don’t mind, do you—about my asking you to go, I mean? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sitting again)</i> - </p> - <p> - Not in the least. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - But you’re not going? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Why should I go? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Oh, well, I thought——- - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - That it wouldn’t be quite suitable for us to meet? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I didn’t mean that, of course. But I thought you mightn’t like—I - mean it might be painful... - </p> - <p> - [<i>Sits again.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - For me to see her? On the contrary, I’m dying to see her. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Janet, sometimes I think you’re not quite human. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - My dear boy, I’m extremely human—and therefore curious <i>(pause)</i>. - What’s she like, Monty? Now, I mean. She promised to be pretty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - She is pretty, I suppose <i>(pause)</i>. I wonder if Bertha and I will - ever have a son like Johnny! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Let’s hope so, Monty. For Bertha’s sake. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Isn’t that some one coming? <i>(pause, listens)</i>, I expect it’s she <i>(rising - hastily and advancing towards stile)</i>. Is that you, Bertha? - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - <i>(at stile)</i> - </p> - <p> - Oh! There you are. Yes. Isn’t it hot? <i>(entering by gate which he opens - for her)</i>. Am I punctual? <i>(with a cry)</i> Janet! When did you come - home? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Goes to her eagerly.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shaking hands)</i> - </p> - <p> - Only three days ago. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Bertha kisses her.</i> - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - <i>Only</i> three days! And you’ve never been up to see us. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I know. But with father ill - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Of course. I understand. I was only joking. How is Mr. De Mullin? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Much better. Not well yet, of course. But he gets stronger every day. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - I’m so glad. I say, Janet, do you remember when you used to teach us - French? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - I was awfully troublesome, I remember. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I expect you were an awful duffer at it too, Bertha. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - What cheek! - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Wasn’t she, Ja—<i>(pulls himself up)</i> Miss De Mullin? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Janet smiles nervously.</i> - </p> - <p> - Oh, yes. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - I didn’t know you’d met Janet, Monty? Why didn’t you tell us? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Quite unsuspicious of anything wrong. Merely curious.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - It was some time ago. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - <i>(surprised)</i> - </p> - <p> - Not at Brendon? You’ve never been at Brendon before. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - No. It was at Weymouth. I was there getting over typhoid years ago. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - I remember, you told me. Eight or nine years ago, wasn’t it? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes <i>(looks at watch)</i>. I say, Bertha, we must be off if we’re not to - be late. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Give me two minutes to rest. The weather’s simply stifling. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Rot! It’s quite cool. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Then you must have been sitting here a long time. I’ve been walking along - a dusty road and I’m not going to start yet. Besides I want to know all - about you two meeting. Were you staying at Weymouth, Janet? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Oh no. I just bicycled over. Mr. Bulstead ran into me. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I like that. She ran into <i>me</i>. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Anyhow my front wheel buckled and he had to help me to put it right. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - What gallantry! - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - It was. The beastly thing took about half an hour. By the time it was over - we seemed to have known each other for a lifetime <i>(looks at watch)</i>. - Two minutes is up. Time to start, Bertha. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - It isn’t. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - It is. You’ll be late for dressing to a certainty if you don’t go. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - I like that. I can dress as quickly as you if it comes to that. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Oh no. I can dress in ten minutes. I’ll give you a quarter of an hour’s - start and be down in the drawing-room five minutes before you’re ready. Is - it a bet? - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Done. In sixpences. <i>(To Janet)</i> I’m staying at the Park for a few - days longer, Janet. Come up and see me, won’t you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(uncomfortably)</i> - </p> - <p> - I’m afraid I can’t promise. On account of father. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Well, after I’ve gone home then. Mother will want to see you. And so will - Helen. And now I suppose I really must go. Come along, Monty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Not I. I needn’t go for a quarter of an hour. You have a quarter of an - hour’s start. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - All right. Good-bye, Janet <i>(kisses her)</i>. You won’t forget about - coming as soon as you can? I go back home on Thursday. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I won’t forget. Good-bye. [<i>Bertha goes off through the wood. Janet - watches her go and there is a pause.</i>) Yes, she <i>is</i> pretty, - Monty. Very pretty. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nods)</i> - </p> - <p> - You don’t mind? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Her being pretty? Of course not. It’s a justification. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - A justification? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - For forgetting me - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(impulsively, seizing her hands)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet, I’ve never done that. You know I haven’t. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(drawing back)</i> - </p> - <p> - No, Monty. Not again. [<i>Pause.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I say, I as nearly as possible called you Janet right out before Bertha. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - So I saw. You <i>did</i> call me Miss De Mullin, by the way,—which - wasn’t very clever of you. - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Did I? What an ass I am! But I don’t suppose she noticed. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I dare say not. <i>(A shrill cry comes from the wood on the right. Then - silence. Janet starts up.)</i> What was that? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I don’t know. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - It sounded like a child. Where did it come from? Over here, didn’t it? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - I think so. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(alarmed)</i> - </p> - <p> - I hope Johnny... I must go and see... <i>(A moment later Johnny runs in, - sobbing, followed by Mrs. De Mullin and Bertha.)</i> Johnny! What is it, - my sweetheart? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Runs to him.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Oh, Mummie, Mummie, I was running after the rabbits and I tripped over - some nettles and they stung me. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - He put his foot in a hole, Janet. He fell just as I met Bertha <i>(shakes - hands with Monty)</i>. How do you do Mr. Bulstead. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - There! There! my pet. Did it hurt very much? Mother shall kiss it and make - it well. - </p> - <p> - JOHNNY (sobs) - </p> - <p> - Oh-h-h—- [<i>Does so.</i> - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Is he your son? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Don’t cry any more, dear. Brave boys don’t cry, you know. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(gasps)</i> - </p> - <p> - It h-hurts so. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I know. But crying won’t make it hurt less, will it? So you must dry your - eyes. Come now. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - All right, Mummie. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Stills sobs gradually.</i> - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - <i>(astonished)</i> - </p> - <p> - I’d no idea you were married, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Hadn’t you? - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - No. When was it? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Eight years ago. Nearly nine. To Mr. Seagrave. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Is he down here with you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No. My husband died soon after our marriage. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Poor Janet. I’m so sorry <i>(pause)</i>. And it was before your marriage - that Monty met you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - How do you know? - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quite unsuspicious)</i> - </p> - <p> - He called you Miss De Mullin. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Of course. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(pricking up her ears suspiciously at this.)</i> - </p> - <p> - I didn’t know you had met my daughter before, Mr. Bulstead. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Nor did I. They met down at Weymouth quite by chance eight or nine years - ago. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(gravely)</i> - </p> - <p> - Indeed? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Yes... I say, Bertha, excuse my interrupting you. but we really must be - off now if we’re not to be late. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - You want to win that bet! - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - The bet’s off. There’s no time to give you any start. I must come too or I - shan’t be in time myself and the Governor will simply curse. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - Is Mr. Bulstead <i>very</i> fierce if people are late for dinner? - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - Simply beastly. - </p> - <h4> - BERTHA - </h4> - <p> - How very unpleasant! I wonder if I’m wise to marry into the family? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Shaking hands merrily with Mrs. DeMullin and Janet. Then goes off r., - laughing merrily.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MONTY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sardonically)</i> - </p> - <p> - I wonder <i>(shakes hands with Mrs. De Mullin and Janet)</i>. Will you - give me a kiss, old chap? - </p> - <p> - [<i>To Johnny.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - That’s three times. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Monty nods.</i> - </p> - <p> - [<i>Monty follows Bertha off r. A long pause. Mrs. De Mullin looks fixedly - at Janet. Janet looks at the ground.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(slowly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Mr. Montague Bulstead seems unusually fond of children, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Does he, mother? - </p> - <p> - [<i>She does not look up.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Johnny is rather old to be kissed by strangers. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I supposed he kissed him because he was brave about being stung. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - He seems to have kissed him before. Twice. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I dare say. I didn’t notice. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Johnny did, apparently. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, it doesn’t matter anyway, does it? <i>(Looks up defiantly. Meets her - mother’s eyes full on her)</i> Why do you look at me like that, mother? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Send Johnny away for a little, Janet. I want to speak to you. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I’d rather not, mother. He might hurt himself again. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - He will be quite safe. Run away, Johnny. But don’t go too far. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - All right, grandmother. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Johnny trots off into the wood. Pause.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(defiantly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, mother? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet, why did you never tell us you had met Mr. Bulstead before? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - When? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Any time during the last three days, when we were speaking of his - engagement. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I’d forgotten all about it, mother. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Indeed? And why didn’t you tell us eight years ago, when you met him at - Weymouth, when you were still “Miss De Mullin”? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Mother, don’t badger me like this. If you want to ask me anything ask it. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet, Mr. Bulstead is Johnny’s father. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Mr. Bulstead? Absurd! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Then why did you pretend not to have met him? Why did you conceal the fact - of your meeting him from us eight years ago? And why has he concealed the - fact from Bertha and the Bulsteads? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Pause.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(resignedly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Very well, mother, if you’re determined to know you must know. Yes, he’s - Johnny’s father. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Oh, Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(irritably)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, mother, if you didn’t want to know you shouldn’t have asked. I told - you not to worry me. <i>(Mrs. De Mullin begins to cry. Remorsefully,)</i> - </p> - <p> - There, there, mother! Don’t cry. I’m sorry I was cross to you. Don’t let’s - talk any more about it. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(snuffling)</i> - </p> - <p> - No, Janet, we <i>must</i> talk about it. There’s no use trying to hide - things any longer. You must tell me the truth. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Much better not, mother. It won’t give you any pleasure to hear. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Still, I’d rather know, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shrugs)</i> - </p> - <p> - As you please. What do you want me to tell you? Mrs. De Mullin - </p> - <p> - Everything. How did you come to be at Weymouth? I don’t remember your - staying at Weymouth eight years ago. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I wasn’t staying there. But Monty was. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shocked)</i> - </p> - <p> - Monty! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Mr. Bulstead. Oh, what <i>does</i> it matter now? - </p> - <p> - He’d had typhoid and was there to recruit. I’d ridden over on my - bicycle... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(lamentably)</i> - </p> - <p> - Bicycle! I always said it was all through bicycling. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(another shrug)</i> - </p> - <p> - He ran into me, or I ran into him. I was rather shaken, and he asked me to - come in and rest. It happened close to the house where he was lodging. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You went in! To his lodgings! A man you had never met before! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - My dear mother, when you have been thrown off a bicycle, ordinary - conventions cease to apply. Besides, as a matter of fact, we <i>had</i> - met once before—the day before, in fact. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Where? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Here. By this very stile. Monty was riding past and he asked me the way to - somewhere—Thoresby, I think. I was standing by the stile. Next day I - happened to ride into Weymouth. We collided—and the rest you know. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sternly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Were those the <i>only</i> times you met him, Janet? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Of course not, mother. After the Weymouth collision we met constantly, - nearly every day. We used to meet out riding and I had tea with him lots - of times in his rooms. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(horrified)</i> - </p> - <p> - How long did this go on? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - More than a month—till he left Weymouth, in fact. Now, mother, is - that all you want to know? Because if so we’ll drop the subject. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Oh, Janet, what <i>will</i> your father say! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Father? He won’t know. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Won’t know? But I must tell him. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Good heavens, why? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - In order that Mr. Bulstead may marry you, of course. Your father will - insist on his marrying you. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - If father attempts to do that, mother, I shall deny the whole story. And - Monty will back me up. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - He would never be so wicked. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - He would have to if I ask him. It’s the least he could do. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Johnny is there to prove it. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - There’s nothing to prove that Monty is Johnny’s father. Nothing whatever. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - But, Janet, <i>why</i> won’t you marry him? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(impatiently)</i> - </p> - <p> - My dear mother, because I don’t want to, of course. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You don’t <i>want</i> to? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Great heavens, no. Why should I? Monty Bulstead isn’t at all the sort of - man I should care to <i>marry</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Why not? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Frankly, mother, because he’s not interesting enough. Monty’s a very nice - fellow and I like him very much, but I don’t want to pass the remainder of - my life with him. If I’m to marry anybody—and I don’t think I shall—it - will have to be a rather more remarkable person than Monty Bulstead. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yet you <i>did</i> love him, Janet. You must have loved him... then. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Oh yes. Then. But that was ages ago, before Johnny was born. After that I - didn’t care for anybody any more except Johnny. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - But, Janet, you <i>ought</i> to marry him, for Johnny’s sake. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Too late, mother. That should have been eight years ago to be any use. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Better too late than not at all. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Better not at all than too late. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - He seduced you, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(thoughtfully)</i> - </p> - <p> - Did he? I was twenty-seven. He was twenty. If either of us was to blame, - wasn’t it I? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet, you’re trying to screen him. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Dearest mother, you talk like a sentimental novel. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(indignantly)</i> - </p> - <p> - And he’s to be allowed to marry Bertha Aldenham, just as if this had never - happened? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Why not? It’s not <i>her</i> fault, is it? And girls find it difficult - enough to get married nowadays, goodness knows. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Still, she <i>ought</i> to be told, Janet. I think <i>she must</i> be - told. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - My dear mother, if <i>she</i> knows everybody will know, and the scandal - will make all the dead and gone De Mullins turn in their graves. As for - father it would simply kill him out of hand. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sadly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Poor father. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(briskly)</i> - </p> - <p> - So, on the whole, I don’t think we’ll tell any one. Come, mother, it’s - time we started. <i>(More kindly)</i> Poor mother. Don’t fret. Perhaps - Hester will have some news to cheer you when we get home. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hester? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(rallying her)</i> - </p> - <p> - An engagement, mother. Hester’s engagement. Hester and Mr. Brown have been - decorating the church for the last <i>four</i> hours. What an opportunity - for a declaration! Or don’t people propose in church? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet, how can you laugh after what has happened? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Laugh? Of course I can laugh. What else is there to do? Let’s go home. - Johnny! Johnny! <i>(calls)</i>. - </p> - <p> - [<i>By this time twilight is falling. A full moon has begun to risey - lighting uf the scene.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(off r.)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes, Mummie. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Come along, dear. Mother’s going to start. Johnny <i>(off r.)</i> - </p> - <p> - All right, Mummie. <i>(entering r.)</i> Oh, Mummie, you’ve not seen my - rabbits yet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No. It’s too dark to-night. Mother must come and see them another time. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - You won’t forget, will you, Mummie? <i>(looking at Mrs. De Mullin)</i> - Grandmother, you’ve been crying. Is that because I stung myself with a - nettle? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Little egoist! Of course it is. Give your grandmother a kiss and we’ll all - walk home together. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Mrs. De Mullin stoop and kisses Johnny passionately. They go off - through the gate and the curtain falls.</i> - </p> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - ACT III - </h2> - <p> - Five days have passed since Act II - </p> - <p> - <i>Scene:</i> As in Act I - </p> - <p> - <i>Time:</i> Late afternoon - </p> - <p> - [<i>When the curtain rises Mrs. Clouston, Mrs. De Mullin, and Janet are on - the stage. The nervous tension of the last few days has clearly told on - Janet, who looks feverish and irritable.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(speaking off into the hall on the right)</i> Good-bye. Good-bye. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(who is standing about c., scornfully)</i> Good-bye! Good-bye! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shocked)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(fiercely)</i> - </p> - <p> - How many times a week does that Bulstead woman think it necessary to call - on us? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sitting)</i> - </p> - <p> - She doesn’t call very often. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - She’s been three times this week. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(closing door r.)</i> - </p> - <p> - Naturally she wants to hear how your father is, dear. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(irritably)</i> - </p> - <p> - My dear mother, what <i>can</i> it matter to Mrs. Bulstead whether father - lives or dies? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(exasperated)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, mother, do you seriously believe she cares? Or Miss Deanes? Or Miss - Rolt? Or any of these people? They only call because they’ve nothing - better to do. It’s sheer mental vacuity on their part. Besides, father’s - perfectly well now. They know that. But they go on <i>calling, calling!</i> - I wonder Miss Deanes doesn’t bring her cockatoo to inquire. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Tramps to and fro impatiently.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Really, Janet, I can’t think what’s the matter with you. Do sit down and - try and exercise some selfcontrol. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I’ve no self-control where these Brendon people are concerned. They get on - my nerves, every one of them.... Where’s Johnny? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - In the garden, I think, - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Sensible boy! He’s had enough of visitors for one day, I’ll be bound. I’ll - go out and join him. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Goes out angrily.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - I can’t think what’s come to Janet the last day or two. Her temper gets - worse and worse. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Perhaps it’s only the hot weather. No De Mullin—- - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Nonsense, Jane, don’t be foolish. We can’t have <i>Janet</i> giving way to - that sort of thing at her age. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I’m afraid she is rather irritable just now. She flew out quite savagely - at Hester to-day just after luncheon. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Why was that? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Because of something she had been teaching Johnny. The Athanasian Creed I - think it was. Yes, it must have been that because Johnny asked Janet what - was meant by three Incomprehensibles. Janet asked him where he had heard - all that and Johnny said Aunt Hester had taught it to him. Janet was very - angry and forbade Hester ever to teach him anything again. Hester was - quite hurt about it. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Naturally. Still, I do think Hester might have chosen something else to - teach him. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - That was what Janet said. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - But that’s no reason why she shouldn’t behave herself when visitors are - here. She was quite rude to Mrs. Bulstead. What they think of her in - London when she goes on like this I can’t imagine. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Perhaps she isn’t like this in London. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Of course she is, Jane. Worse. Here she has the restraining influences of - home life. Whereas in London, living alone as she does... - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She has Johnny. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - She has Johnny, of course. But that’s not enough. She ought to have a - husband to look after her. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sighs)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Seats herself slowly beside her sister.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Where’s Hester? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - At church, I expect. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Church! Why the girl’s always at church. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - It’s a Wednesday. And it does no harm, I think. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Let us hope not, Jane. - </p> - <p> - [<i>De Mullin enters by the door on the left. He has evidently got over - his recent attack and looks comparatively hale and vigorous.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Have you had your nap, Hugo? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. The sunset woke me, I suppose. It was shining full on my face. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - What a pity it woke you. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - It didn’t matter. I’ve slept enough... <i>(wanders towards sofa, c.)</i>. - Where’s Johnny? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - In the garden, I think, with Janet. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(wanders to window, c., and looks out)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes. There he is. He’s playing hide and seek with Ellen.... Now she’s - caught him. No, he’s got away. Bravo, Johnny! <i>(Stands watching intently - for a while. Then turns and comes down c.)</i> What a fine little fellow - it is! A true De Mullin! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Do you think so, Hugo? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Every inch of him! <i>(pause, sits c., half to himself)</i> If only Janet - had been married! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sighs)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(musing)</i> - </p> - <p> - I wonder who the father really was. <i>(looking up)</i> She has never told - you, Jane, I suppose? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(steadily, without looking up)</i> - </p> - <p> - No, Hugo. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - And never will. Nobody was ever so obstinate as Janet. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nods sadly)</i> - </p> - <p> - JANET always had plenty of will. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Far too much! [<i>pause.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You’ll quite miss Johnny when he goes away from us, Won’t you, Hugo. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. I never thought I could grow so fond of a child. The house will seem - empty without him. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I shall miss him too. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - We shall all miss him. <i>(pause, thoughtfully)</i> I wonder if Janet - would leave him with us when she goes back to London? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Leave him with us? Altogether, you mean? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I’m afraid not, Hugo. In fact, I’m quite sure she would not. She’s so fond - of Johnny. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I suppose she wouldn’t <i>(pause)</i>. I was greatly shocked at what you - told me about her the other day, Harriet. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - About her keeping a shop, you mean? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. And going into partnership with a Miss Higgs or Hicks. It all sounds - most discreditable. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Deplorable. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(meekly)</i> - </p> - <p> - She had to do something to keep herself, Hugo. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - No doubt. Still, it can’t be considered a proper sort of position for my - daughter. I think she must give it up at once. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - She would only have to take to something else. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Not necessarily. She might come back here to live with us... with Johnny, - of course. - </p> - <p> - Mrs. De. Mullin <i>(astonished)</i> - </p> - <p> - <i>Live</i> with us? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Why not, Jane? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Well, of course if <i>you</i> think so, Hugo. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Are you sure you will like to have Janet living at home again, Hugo? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I think it might be the best arrangement. And I shall like to have Johnny - here. He’s our only descendant, Harriet, the last of the De Mullins. If - you or Jane had had a son it would be different. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sighs)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - As it is I don’t see how we can do anything-better than have them both - down here—as Jane doesn’t think Janet would part with Johnny. It - would be better for Janet too. It would take her away from her present - unsatisfactory surroundings. It would give her a position and independence—everything - she now lacks. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I should have thought she was <i>independent</i> now, - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(irritably)</i> - </p> - <p> - My dear Jane, how can a woman possibly be independent whose income comes - out of selling hats? The only form of independence that is possible or - desirable for a woman is that she shall be dependent upon her husband or, - if she is unmarried, on her nearest male relative. I am sure <i>you</i> - agree with me, Harriet? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Quite, Hugo. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Very well. I will speak to her about it at once. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nervously)</i> - </p> - <p> - I hardly think I would say anything about it to-day, Hugo. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Why not, Jane? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Well, she seems nervous and irritable to-day. I think I should put it off - for a day or two. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(testily)</i> - </p> - <p> - My dear Jane, you are always procrastinating. If such an arrangement is to - be made the sooner it is made the better. <i>(Goes to window, c., calls)</i> - Janet my dear. Janet. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Pause. Then Janet appears at window, c.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Did you call me, father? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Come to me for a moment. I want to speak to you. <i>(De Mullin - wanders undecidedly to the fireplace. A moment later Janet enters from the - garden.)</i> Is Johnny with you? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No. He’s having tea with Ellen. I said he might. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Pause. Janet comes down.</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet, your mother and I have been talking over your future. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Have you, father? - </p> - <p> - [<i>With a quick glance at her mother. Mrs. De Mullin, however, makes no - sign.</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. We have come to the conclusion that it would be better for you to - come back here to live. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Janet faces round towards her father.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - But what would become of the business? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You will have to give up the business, of course. So much the better. You - never ought to have gone into it. It was not at all a suitable occupation - for you. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - But I like it, father. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>Like</i> it! A De Mullin <i>like</i> keeping a shop! Impossible. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(firmly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Yes, Aunt Harriet, I like it. And I’m proud of it. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sharply)</i> - </p> - <p> - Nonsense, Janet. Nobody can possibly be proud of keeping a shop. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>I</i> am. I made it, you see. It’s my child, like Johnny. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(amazed)</i> - </p> - <p> - JANET! Do you understand what you’re doing? I offer you the chance of - returning to Brendon to live as my daughter. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(indifferently)</i> - </p> - <p> - I quite understand, father. And I’m much obliged for the offer. Only I - decline it. That’s all. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Really! - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(with dignity)</i> - </p> - <p> - The question is, are you to be allowed to decline it, in Johnny’s - interests if not your own? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Johnny’s? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Johnny’s. As long as he was a child it made little difference where - he was brought up. Relatively little that is. Now he is getting to an age - when early associations are all-important. Living here at Brendon in the - home of his ancestors he will grow up worthy of the race from which he is - descended. He will be a true De Mullin. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quietly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Perhaps I don’t want him to be a true De Mullin, father. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - What do you mean? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - My dear father, you’re infatuated about your De Mullins. Who are the De - Mullins, after all? Mere country squires who lived on here down at Brendon - generation after generation. What have they ever done that I should want - Johnny to be like them? Nothing. There’s not one of them who has ever - distinguished himself in the smallest degree or made his name known - outside his native village. The De Mullins are, and have always been, - nobodies. Look at their portraits. Is there a single one of them that is - worth a second glance? Why they never even had the brains to be painted by - a decent artist. With the result that they aren’t worth the canvas they’re - painted on. Or is it board? I’d make a bonfire of them if they were mine. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(impatiently)</i> - </p> - <p> - I would. You seem to think there’s some peculiar virtue about always - living in the same place. I believe in people uprooting themselves and - doing something with their lives. What was the good of the De Mullins - going on living down here century after century, always a little poorer - and a little poorer, selling a farm here, mortgaging another there, - instead of going out into the world to seek their fortunes? We’ve stayed - too long in one place, we De Mullins. We shall never be worth anything - sleeping away our lives down at Brendon. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(sharply)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet, you are talking foolishly. What you say only makes it clearer to me - that you cannot be allowed to live by yourself in London any longer. Such - a life is demoralizing to you. You must come back to Brendon. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I shall not come back to Brendon, father. On that I am quite determined. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(with dignity)</i> - </p> - <p> - My dear, this is not a matter that rests with you. My mind is made up. - Hitherto I have only asked you to return. Do not force me to command you. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(fiercely)</i> - </p> - <p> - Command? By what right do you command? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - By the right of a father, Janet. By that right I insist on your obedience. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(losing her temper)</i> - </p> - <p> - Obedience! Obedience! I owe no one obedience. I am of full age and can - order my life as I please. Is a woman never to be considered old enough to - manage her own affairs? Is she to go down to her grave everlastingly under - tutelage? Is she always to be obeying a father when she’s not obeying a - husband? Well, I, for one, will not submit to such nonsense. I’m sick of - this everlasting <i>obedience</i>. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(fiercely)</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET...! - </h4> - <p> - [<i>Door opens l. Ellen enters with the lamp. There is a considerable - pause, during which Ellen puts down the lamp, turns it up, pulls down the - blind and begins to draw the curtains. In the middle of the last process - De Mullin intervenes.</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - (irritably) - </p> - <p> - You can leave the curtains, Ellen. - </p> - <h4> - ELLEN - </h4> - <p> - Very well, sir. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Exit Ellen l. with maddening deliberation. Pause.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Father, I’m sorry if what I said vexed you. Perhaps I spoke too strongly. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(with great dignity)</i> - </p> - <p> - Very well, Janet. You will remain with us. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No, father, that’s not possible. For Johnny’s sake, as well as my own, it - would be madness for us to live down here. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - For Johnny’s sake? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, Johnny’s. In London we’re not known, he and I. There he’s simply - Johnny Seagrave, the son of a respectable widow who keeps a hat-shop. Here - he is the son of Janet De Mullin who ran away from home one night eight - years ago and whose name was never mentioned again by her parents until - one fine day she turned up with an eight-year-old boy and said she was - married. How long would they take to see through <i>that</i> story down - here, do you think? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - <i>(tartly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Whose fault is that? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Never mind whose fault it is, Aunt Harriet. The question is, will they see - through it or will they not? Of course, they <i>know</i> nothing so far, - but I’ve no doubt they suspect. What else have people to do down here but - suspect other people? Miss Deanes murmurs her doubts to Mrs. Bulstead and - Mrs. Bulstead shakes her head to Miss Deanes. Mrs. Bulstead! What right - has <i>she</i> to look down that huge nose of hers at <i>me!</i> She’s had - <i>ten</i> children! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - JANET! She’s married. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - To Mr. Bulstead! That vulgar animal! You don’t ask me to consider that a - <i>merit</i>, do you? No, Mrs. Bulstead shan’t have the chance of sneering - at Johnny if <i>I</i> can help it. Or at me either. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet, listen to me. You don’t understand how your father feels about this - or how much it means to him. Johnny is his only grandchild—our only - descendant. He would adopt him and call him De Mullin, and then the name - would not die out. You know how much your father thinks of that and how - sorry he has always been that I never had a son. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(more gently)</i> - </p> - <p> - I know, mother. But when Hester marries... - </p> - <h4> - HESTER? - </h4> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(turning angrily to his wife)</i> - </p> - <p> - But whom is Hester going to marry? Is she going to marry? I have heard - nothing about this. What’s this, Jane? Has something been kept from me? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - No, no, Hugo. Nothing has been kept from you. It’s only some fancy of - Janet’s. She thinks Mr. Brown is going to propose to Hester. There’s - nothing in it, really. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Mr. Brown! Impossible! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Quite impossible! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(calmly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Why impossible, father? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - He would never dare to do such a thing. <i>Mr. Brown</i> to have the - audacity to propose to <i>my</i> daughter! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quietly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Why not, father? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(bubbling with rage)</i> - </p> - <p> - Because he is not of a suitable position. Because the <i>De Mullins</i> - cannot be expected to marry people of <i>that</i> class. Because... - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(shrugs)</i> - </p> - <p> - I dare say Mr. Brown won’t think of all that. Anyhow, I hope he won’t. I - hope he’ll propose to Hester and she’ll accept him and then when they’ve a - whole herd of little Browns you can select one of them and make a De - Mullin of him, poor little wretch. - </p> - <p> - <i>[At this moment Hester enters from the garden. An uncomfortable silence - falls</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hush, hush, Janet. Here is Hester. Is that you, Hester? Have you come from - church? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Yes, mother. - </p> - <p> - <i>[She comes down, her face looking pale and drawn, and stands by her - mother.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You’re very late, dear. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - A little, I stayed on after service was over. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - How very eccentric of you! - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quietly)</i> - </p> - <p> - I suppose saying one’s prayers does seem eccentric to you, Aunt Harriet? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - My dear Hester, considering you’d only just finished <i>one</i> service... - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(who has not noticed the look on her sister’s face)</i> - </p> - <p> - Well, Aunt Harriet, who was right? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hush, Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(gaily)</i> - </p> - <p> - My dear mother, what on earth is there to “hush” about? And what on earth - is there to keep Hester in church half an hour after service is over, if - it’s not what I told you? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - What do you mean? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Nothing, dear. Come and give me a kiss. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Pulling her towards her.</i> - </p> - <p> - HESTER {repulsing her roughly) - </p> - <p> - I won’t. Leave me alone, Janet. What has she been saying about me, mother? - I insist on knowing. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Nothing, dear. Only some nonsense about you and Mr. Brown. Janet is always - talking nonsense. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, Hester. About you and Mr. Brown. <i>Your</i> Mr. Brown. Confess he - has asked you to marry him as I said? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(slowly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Mr. Brown is engaged to be married to Agatha Bulstead. He told me so this - evening after service. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - He told you! - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Yes. He asked me to congratulate him. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - The little wretch! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - To Agatha Bulstead? That’s the plain one, isn’t it? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - The third one. Yes. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - The plain one! Good heavens, it oughtn’t to be allowed. The children will - be little monsters. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - So that’s why you were so long at church? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Yes. I was praying that they might be happy. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Poor Hester! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Are you disappointed, dear? - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - I’d rather not talk about it if you don’t mind, mother. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Your father would never have given his consent. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - So Mr. Brown said. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - The little <i>worm</i>. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - My dear! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, mother, isn’t it too contemptible? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - I’m bound to say Mr. Brown seems to have behaved in a very fitting manner. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - You think so, father? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Certainly. He saw what my objections would be and recognized that they - were reasonable. Nothing could be more proper. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, father. I don’t know what you do want. Ten minutes ago you were - supposed to be wanting a grandson to adopt. Here’s Hester going the right - way to provide one, and you don’t like that either. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - What is all this about, father? What have you all been discussing while - I’ve been out? - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - It was nothing about you, Hester. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - I’m not sure of that, mother. Anyhow I should like to hear what it was. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Hester, that is not at all a proper tone to use in speaking to your - mother. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(fiercely)</i> - </p> - <p> - Please don’t interfere, Aunt Harriet. I suppose I can be trusted to speak - to my mother properly by this time. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - You certainly ought to, my dear. You are quite old enough. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Very well then. Perhaps you will be good enough not to dictate to me in - future. What was it you were discussing, father? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I’ll tell you, Hester. Father wanted to adopt Johnny. He wanted me to come - down here to live altogether. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Indeed? Well, father, understand, please, that if Janet comes down here to - live <i>I go!</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Hester! - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - I will not live in the same house with Janet. Nothing shall induce me. I - would rather beg my bread. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - That settles it then. Thanks, Hester. I’m glad you had the pluck to say - that. You are right. Quite right. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - I can do without <i>your</i> approval, Janet. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(recklessly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Of course you can. But you can have it all the same. You never wanted me - down here. You always disapproved of my being sent for. I ought never to - have come. I wish I hadn’t come. My coming has only done harm to Hester, - as she knew it would. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - How harm? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Mr. Brown would have asked Hester to marry him if I hadn’t come. He meant - to; I’m sure of it. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - But he said... - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I know. But that was only an excuse. Young men aren’t so considerate of - their future fathers-inlaw as all that nowadays. No. Mr. Brown heard some - story about me from Miss Deanes. Or perhaps the Vicar put him on his - guard. Isn’t it so, Hester? - </p> - <p> - [<i>Hester nods.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - But as your father would never have consented, dear... - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(slowly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Still, I’d rather he had asked me, mother. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Quite right, Hester! I’m glad you’ve got some wholesome feminine vanity - left in your composition. And you’d have said “yes,” like a sensible - woman. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Oh, you’re always sneering! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. But I’m <i>going</i>, Hester, <i>going! That’s</i> great thing! Keep - your eyes fixed steadily on that and you’ll be able to bear anything else. - That reminds me. <i>(Goes to door, l., and calls loudly into the hall.)</i> - Johnny! Johnny! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Really, Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Oh, I forgot. It’s not genteel to call into the passage, is it? I ought to - have rung. I apologise, Aunt Harriet. <i>(Calls again)</i> Johnny! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Why are you calling Johnny? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - To tell him to put on his hat and coat, mother dear. I’m going to the - station. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - You’re going to-night? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, father, to-night. I’ve done harm enough down here. I’m going away. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - <i>(entering l.)</i> - </p> - <p> - Do you want me, Mummie? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes. Run and put on your things and say goodbye to Cook and Ellen and tell - Robert to put in the pony. Mother’s going back to London. - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - Are we going now, Mummie? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(nods)</i> - </p> - <p> - As fast as the train can carry us. And tell Ellen to lock my trunk for me - and give you the key. Run along. - </p> - <p> - <i>[Exit Johnny, l.</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Lock your trunk! But you’ve not <i>packed?</i> - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Oh yes, I have. Everything’s packed, down to my last shoelace. I don’t - know how often I haven’t packed and unpacked during the last five days. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(astonished and hurt)</i> - </p> - <p> - You meant to leave us then, Janet? You’ve been <i>wanting</i> to leave us - all the time? - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Yes, mother. I’ve been wanting to leave you. I can’t stay here any longer. - Brendon stifles me. It has too many ghosts. I suppose it’s your ridiculous - De Mullins. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - I know, father. That’s blasphemy, isn’t it? But I can’t help it. I must - go. I’ve been meaning to tell you every day for the last four days, but - somehow I always put it off. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Understand me, Janet. If you leave this house to-night you leave it for - ever. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(cheerfully)</i> - </p> - <p> - All right, father. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(growing angrier)</i> - </p> - <p> - Understand, too, that if you leave it you are never to hold any - communication either with me or with any one in it henceforward. You are - cut off from the family. I will never see you or recognize you in any way, - or speak to you again as long as I live. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(astonished)</i> - </p> - <p> - My dear father, why are you so angry? Is there anything so dreadful in my - wanting to live in London instead of in the country? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(getting more and more excited)</i> - </p> - <p> - Why am I angry! Why am I...! - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Sh! Hugo! You mustn’t excite yourself. You know the doctor said... - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Be quiet, Jane! <i>(turning furiously to Janet)</i> Why am I angry! You - disgrace the family. You have a child, that poor fatherless boy.... - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(quietly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Oh come, I could have got along quite well without a father if it comes to - that. And so could Hester. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, mother, what has father ever done for Hester or me except try and - prevent us from doing something we wanted to do? Hester wanted to marry - Mr. Brown. Father wouldn’t have allowed her. He’s not genteel enough to - marry a De Mullin. I want to go back to my shop. Father objects to that. - That’s not genteel enough for a De Mullin either. Well, hang all the De - Mullins, say I. - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(furious)</i> - </p> - <p> - I forbid you to speak of your family in that way-of <i>my</i> family! I - forbid it! It is an outrage. Your ancestors were honourable men and pure - women. They did their duty in the position in which they were born, and - handed on their name untarnished to their children. Hitherto our honour - has been unsullied. You have sullied it. You have brought shame upon your - parents and shame upon your son, and that shame you can never wipe out. If - you had in you a spark of human feeling, if you were not worthless and - heartless you would blush to look me in the face or your child in the - face. But you are utterly hardened. I ought never to have offered to - receive you back into this house. I ought never to have consented to see - you again. I was wrong. I regret it. You are unfit for the society of - decent people. Go back to London. Take up the wretched trade you practise - there. It is what you are fit for. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - That’s exactly what I think, father. As we agree about it why make such a - fuss? - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(furious)</i> - </p> - <p> - Janet.... - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Father, don’t argue with her. It’s no use. <i>(solemnly)</i> Leave her to - God. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Hester, Hester, don’t deceive yourself. In your heart you envy me my baby, - and you know it. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(indignant)</i> - </p> - <p> - I do not. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - You do. Time is running on with you, my dear. You’re twenty-eight. Just - the age that I was when I met my lover. Yes, my lover. In a few years you - will be too old for love, too old to have children. So soon it passeth - away and we are gone. Your best years are slipping by and you are growing - faded and cross and peevish. Already the lines are hardening about your - mouth and the hollows coming under your eyes. You will be an old woman - before your time unless you marry and have children. And what will you do - then? Keep a lap-dog, I suppose, or sit up at night with a sick cockatoo - like Miss Deanes. Miss Deanes! Even she has a heart somewhere about her. - Do you imagine she wouldn’t rather give it to her babies than snivel over - <i>poultry?</i> No, Hester, make good use of your youth, my dear. It won’t - last always. And once gone it is gone for ever. <i>(Hester bursts into - tears.)</i> There, there, Hester! I’m sorry. I oughtn’t to have spoken - like that. It wasn’t kind. Forgive me. <i>(Hester weep more and more - violently.)</i> Hester, don’t cry like that. I can’t bear to hear you. I - was angry and said more than I should. I didn’t mean to vex you. Come, - dear, you mustn’t give way like that or you’ll make yourself ill. Dry your - eyes and let me see you smile. <i>(Caressing her. Hester, who has begun by - resisting her feebly, gradually allows herself to be soothed.)</i> That’s - better! My dear, what a sight you’ve made of yourself! But all women are - hideous when they’ve been crying. It makes their noses red and that’s - dreadfully unbecoming. <i>(Hester sobs out a laugh)</i>. No. You mustn’t - begin to cry again or I shall scold you. I shall, really. - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - <i>(half laughing, half crying hysterically)</i> - </p> - <p> - You seem to think every woman ought to behave as shamefully as you did. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(grimly)</i> - </p> - <p> - No, Hester. I don’t think that. To do as I did needs pluck and brains—and - five hundred pounds. Everything most women haven’t got, poor things. So - they must marry or remain childless. You must marry—the next curate. - I suppose the Bulsteads will buy Mr. Brown a living as he’s marrying the - plainest of the daughters. It’s the least they can do. But that’s no - reason why <i>I</i> should marry unless I choose. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. CLOUSTON - </h4> - <p> - Well, I’ve never heard of anything so disgraceful. I thought Janet at - least had the grace to be ashamed of what she did! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(genuinely astonished)</i> - </p> - <p> - Ashamed? Ashamed of wanting to have a child? What on earth were women - created for, Aunt Harriet, if not to have children? - </p> - <p> - MRS. CLOUSTON To <i>marry</i> and have children. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(with relentless logic)</i> - </p> - <p> - My dear Aunt Harriet, women had children thousands of years before - marriage was invented. I dare say they will go on doing so thousands of - years after it has ceased to exist. - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - Well, mother, that’s how I feel. And I believe it’s how all wholesome - women feel if they would only acknowledge it. I <i>wanted</i> to have a - child. I always did from the time when I got too old to play with dolls. - Not an adopted child or a child of some one else’s, but a baby of my very - own. Of course I wanted to marry. That’s the ordinary way a woman wants to - be a mother nowadays, I suppose. But time went on and nobody came forward, - and I saw myself getting old and my chance slipping away. Then I met-never - mind. And I fell in love with him. Or perhaps I only fell in love with - love. I don’t know. It was so splendid to find some one at last who really - cared for me as women should be cared for! Not to talk to because I was - clever or to play tennis with because I was strong, but to kiss me and to - make love to me! Yes! To make love to me! - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(solemnly)</i> - </p> - <p> - Listen to me, my girl. You say that now, and I dare say you believe it. - But when you are older, when Johnny is grown up, you will bitterly repent - having brought into the world a child who can call no man father. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - <i>(passionately)</i> - </p> - <p> - Never! Never! That I’m sure of. Whatever happens, even if Johnny should - come to hate me for what I did, I shall always be glad to have been his - mother. At least I shall have lived. These poor women who go through life - listless and dull, who have never felt the joys and the pains a mother - feels, how they would envy me if they knew! If they knew! To know that a - child is your very own, is a part of you. That you have faced sickness and - pain and death itself for it. That it is yours and nothing can take it - from you because no one can understand its wants as you do. To feel it’s - soft breath on your cheek, to soothe it when it is fretful and still it - when it cries, that is motherhood and that is glorious! - </p> - <p> - [<i>Johnny runs in by the door on the left. He is obviously in the highest - spirits at the thought of going home.</i> - </p> - <h4> - JOHNNY - </h4> - <p> - The trap is round, Mummie, and the luggage is in. - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - That’s right. Good-bye, father. <i>(He does not move)</i> Say good-bye to - your grandfather, Johnny. You won’t see him again. - </p> - <p> - [<i>De Mullin kisses Johnny.</i> - </p> - <h4> - MRS. DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - Janet! - </p> - <h4> - JANET - </h4> - <p> - No, mother. It’s best not. <i>(Kisses her)</i> It would only be painful - for father. Good-bye, Aunt Harriet. Good-bye, Hester. - </p> - <p> - [<i>Looks at Hester doubtfully. Hester rises, goes to her slowly and - kisses her.</i> - </p> - <h4> - HESTER - </h4> - <p> - Good-bye. . - </p> - <p> - [<i>Exeunt Johnny and Janet by the door the right.</i> - </p> - <h4> - DE MULLIN - </h4> - <p> - <i>(his grey head bowed on his chest as Mrs De Mullin timidly lays her - hand on his shoulder)</i> - </p> - <p> - The last of the De Mullins! The last of the De Mullins! - </p> - <p> - <i>(The curtain falls)</i> - </p> - <div style="height: 6em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The Last of The De Mullins, by St. John Hankin - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LAST OF THE DE MULLINS *** - -***** This file should be named 54699-h.htm or 54699-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/5/4/6/9/54699/ - -Produced by David Widger from page images generously -provided by the Internet Archive - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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-Title: The Last of The De Mullins
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- <h1>
- THE LAST OF<br /> THE DE MULLINS
- </h1>
- <h4>
- A Play without a Preface
- </h4>
- <h2>
- By St. John Hankin
- </h2>
- <h4>
- London: A. C. Fifield
- </h4>
- <h4>
- 1909
- </h4>
-<div class="fig" style="width:50%;">
- <img src="images/0010.jpg" alt="0010 " width="100%" /><br />
- </div>
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <br />
- </p>
- <p>
- The Persons in the Play
- </p>
- <p>
- Hugo De Mullin
- </p>
- <p>
- Jane De Mullin.....His wife
- </p>
- <p>
- Mrs. Clouston......His sister.
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet De Mullin....(Mrs. Seagrave) Hugo’s eldest daughter.
- </p>
- <p>
- Johnny Seagrave....Her son.
- </p>
- <p>
- Hester De Mullin...Her sister.
- </p>
- <p>
- Bertha Aldenham
- </p>
- <p>
- Monty Bulstead
- </p>
- <p>
- Dr. Rolt...........The local doctor.
- </p>
- <p>
- Mr. Brown..........The curate.
- </p>
- <p>
- Miss Deanes
- </p>
- <p>
- Ellen..............Maid at the De Mullins’.
- </p>
- <p>
- The action of the play takes place at Brendon Underwood in Dorset, Acts I
- and III at the Manor House, the De Mullins’ house in the village, Act II
- on the borders of Brendon Forest. Three days pass between Acts I and II,
- five between Acts II and III.
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <p>
- <b>CONTENTS</b>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> ACT I </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> ACT II </a>
- </p>
- <p class="toc">
- <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> ACT III </a>
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- ACT I
- </h2>
- <p>
- <i>Scene:</i> The Inner Hall at the Manor House in Brendon-Underwood
- village. An old-fashioned white-panelled room. At the back is a big
- stone-mullioned Tudor window looking out on to the garden. On the left of
- this is a bay in which is a smaller window. A door in the bay leads out
- into the garden. People entering by this door pass the window before they
- appear. The furniture is oak, mostly Jacobean or older. The right-hand
- wall of the room is mainly occupied by a great Tudor fireplace, over which
- the De Mullin Coat of Arms is carved in stone. Above this a door leads to
- the outer hall and front door. A door on the opposite side of the room
- leads to the staircase and the rest of the house. The walls are hung with
- a long succession of family portraits of all periods and in all stages of
- dinginess as to both canvas and frame. When the curtain rises the stage is
- empty. Then Hester is seen to pass the window at the back, followed by Mr.
- Brown. A moment later they enter. Mr. Brown is a stout, rather
- unwholesome-looking curate, Hester a lean, angular girl of twenty-eight,
- very plainly and unattractively dressed in sombre tight-fitting clothes.
- She has a cape over her shoulders and a black hat on. Brown wears seedy
- clerical garments, huge boots and a squashy hat. The time is twelve
- o’clock in the morning of a fine day in September.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Come in, Mr. Brown. I’ll tell mother you’re here. I expect she’s upstairs
- with father (going towards door).
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Don’t disturb Mrs. De Mullin, please. I didn’t mean to come in.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- You’ll sit down now you <i>are</i> here?
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Thank you (<i>does so awkwardly</i>). I’m so glad to hear Mr. De Mullin is
- better. The Vicar will be glad too.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Dr. Rolt thinks he will do all right now.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You must have been very anxious when he was first taken ill.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- We were terribly anxious. [Hester <i>takes off her hat and cape and puts
- them down on the window seat</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I suppose there’s no doubt it was some sort of stroke?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Dr. Rolt says no doubt.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- How did it happen?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- We don’t know. He had just gone out of the room when we heard a fall.
- Mother ran out into the hall and found him lying by the door quite
- unconscious. She was dreadfully frightened. So were we all.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Had he been complaining of feeling unwell?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not specially. He complained of the heat a little. And he had a headache.
- But father’s not strong, you know. None of the De Mullins are, Aunt
- Harriet says.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mrs. Clouston is with you now, isn’t she?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. For a month. She generally stays with us for a month in the summer.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I suppose she’s very fond of Brendon?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- All the De Mullins are fond of Brendon, Mr. Brown.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Naturally. You have been here so long.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Since the time of King Stephen.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not in this house?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- (smiling)
- </p>
- <p>
- Not in this house, of course. It’s not old enough for that.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Still, it must be very old. The oldest house in the Village, isn’t it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Only about four hundred years. The date is 1603. The mill is older, of
- course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You still own the mill, don’t you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Father would never part with it. He thinks everything of the mill. We
- get our name from it, you know. De Mullin. Du Moulin. “Of the Mill.”
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Were the original De Mullins millers then?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- (<i>rather shocked at such a suggestion</i>)
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh no!
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I thought they couldn’t have been. .
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- No De Mullin has ever been in trade of <i>any</i> kind! But in the old
- days to own a mill was a feudal privilege. Only lords of manors and the
- great abbeys had them. The farmers had to bring all their corn to them to
- be ground.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I see.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- There were constant disputes about it all through the Middle Ages.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why was that?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- The farmers would rather have ground their corn for themselves, I suppose.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why? If the De Mullins were willing to do it for them?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- They had to pay for having it ground, of course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- (<i>venturing on a small joke</i>)
- </p>
- <p>
- Then the De Mullins <i>were</i> millers, after all, in a sense.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- You mustn’t let father hear you say so!
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- The mill is never used now, is it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. When, people gave up growing corn round here and all the land was
- turned into pasture it fell into decay, and now it’s almost ruinous.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- What a pity!
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Father says England has never been the same since the repeal of the
- Corn laws. (<i>Enter Mrs. De Mullin and Mrs. Clouston by the door on the
- left, followed by Dr. Rolt.</i>) Here is mother—and Aunt Harriet.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>Mrs. De Mullin, poor lady, is a crushed, timid creature of fifty-eight
- or so, entirely dominated by the De Mullin fetish and quite unable to hold
- her own against either her husband or her sister-in-law, a hardmouthed,
- resolute woman of sixty. Even Hester she finds almost too much for her.
- For the rest a gentle, kindly lady, rather charming in her extreme
- helplessness. Rolt is the average country doctor, brisk, sensible, neither
- a fool nor a genius.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- ROLT
- </h4>
- <p>
- (as they enter the room)
- </p>
- <p>
- He’s better. Distinctly better. A little weak and depressed, of course.
- That’s only to be expected. Good morning.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Shakes hands with Hester. Nods to Brown</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mr. De Mullin is always nervous about himself.
- </p>
- <h4>
- ROLT
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Constitutional, no doubt. But he’ll pick up in a few days. Keep him
- as quiet as you can. That’s really all he needs now.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You don’t think he ought to stay in his room?
- </p>
- <p>
- ... Good morning, Mr. Brown. Are you waiting to see me?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Brown shakes hands with both ladies.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- (<i>awkwardly</i>)
- </p>
- <p>
- Not specially. I walked over from the church with Miss De Mullin.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Is father coming downstairs, mother?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, Hester. He insisted on getting up. You know he always hates staying
- in his room.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, Dr. Rolt, do you think he <i>should?</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- ROLT
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t think it will do him any harm. He can rest quietly in a chair or
- on the sofa.... Well, I must be off. Good-bye, Mrs. De Mullin.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Shakes hands briskly with every one</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- (<i>rising ponderously</i>)
- </p>
- <p>
- I must be going too (<i>shakes hands with Mrs. De Mullin</i>). You’ll tell
- Mr. De Mullin I inquired after him? Good-bye, Mrs. Clouston (<i>shakes
- hands</i>). And you’re coming to help with the Harvest Decorations on
- Saturday, aren’t you, Miss De Mullin?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shaking hands)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Of course.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Brown and Rolt go out.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(seating herself and beginning to knit resolutely)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- What singularly unattractive curates the Vicar seems to get hold of,
- Jane!.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(meekly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Do you think so, Harriet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Quite remarkably. This Mr. Brown, for instance. He has the most enormous
- <i>feet!</i> And his boots! I’ve never seen such boots!
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(flushing)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- We needn’t sneer if Mr. Brown doesn’t wear fine clothes, Aunt Harriet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course not Hester. Still, I think he goes to the opposite extreme. And
- he really is quite abnormally plain. Then there was that Mr. Snood, who
- was curate when I was down last year. The man with the very red hands. (<i>These
- acid comments are too much for Hester, who flounces out angrily. Mrs.
- Clouston looks up for a moment, wondering what is the meaning of this
- sudden disappearance. Then continues unmoved.</i>) I’m afraid the clergy
- aren’t what they were in our young days, Jane.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t think I’ve noticed any falling off.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- It is there all the same. I’m sure Hugo would agree with me. Of course,
- curates are paid next to nothing. Still, I think the Vicar might be more
- happy in his choice.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I believe the poor like him.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(to whom this seems of small importance compared with his shocking
- social disabilities)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Very likely.... Do please keep still, Jane, and don’t fidget with that
- book. What is the matter with you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’m a little nervous this morning. Hugo’s illness...
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hugo’s almost well now.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Still the anxiety...
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nonsense, Jane. Anxiety is not at all a thing to give way to, especially
- when there’s no longer anything to be anxious about. Hugo’s practically
- well now. Dr. Rolt seems to have frightened us all quite unnecessarily.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I suppose it’s difficult to tell.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course, it’s difficult. Otherwise no one would send for a doctor. What
- are doctors for if they can’t tell when a case is serious and when it is
- not?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- But if he didn’t know?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Then he <i>ought</i> to have known. Next time Hugo is ill you’d better
- send to Bridport. <i>(Mrs. De Mullin drops book on table with a clatter)</i>
- Really, Jane, what are you doing? Throwing books about like that!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- It slipped out of my hand.,,
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Rises and goes up to window restlessly.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Is anything wrong?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(hesitating)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, the truth is I’ve done something, Harriet, and now I’m not sure
- whether I ought to have done it. Mrs. Clouston
- </p>
- <p>
- Done what?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(dolorously)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I’m afraid you won’t approve.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Perhaps you’d better tell me what it is. Then we shall know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- The fact is some one is coming here this morning, Harriet—to see
- Hugo.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- To see Hugo? Who is it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(with horror)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet! She wouldn’t <i>dare!</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(dolorously)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I sent for her, Harriet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- You <i>sent</i> for her?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. When Hugo was first taken ill and Dr. Rolt seemed to think the attack
- was so serious....
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Dr. Rolt was a fool.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very likely, Harriet. But he said Hugo might die. And he said if there was
- any one Hugo would wish to see....
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- But would Hugo wish to see Janet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I thought he might. After all Janet <i>is</i> his daughter. Mrs. Clouston
- </p>
- <p>
- I thought he said he would never see her again?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- He did <i>say</i> that, of course. But that was eight years ago. And, of
- course, he wasn’t ill then.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- When did you send for her?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Three days ago.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why didn’t she come <i>then</i>, if she was coming at all?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She was away from home. That was so unfortunate. If she had come when Hugo
- was ill in bed it might have been all right. But now that he’s almost well
- again....
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- When did you hear she was coming?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Only this morning. Here is what she says..
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Produces telegram from pocket</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(reads)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- “Telegram delayed. Arrive mid-day. Seagrave.” Seagrave?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. She calls herself Mrs. Seagrave now.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nods)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- On account of the child, I suppose.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I suppose so.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- I never could understand how Janet came to go so wrong. <i>(Mrs. De Mullin
- sighs.)</i> None of the <i>De Mullins</i> have ever done such a thing
- before.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(plaintively)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I’m sure she doesn’t get it from <i>my</i> family.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, she must have got it from <i>somewhere</i>. She’s not in the least
- like a De Mullin.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(lamentably</i>)
- </p>
- <p>
- I believe it was all through bicycling.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Bicycling?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. When girls usen’t to scour about the country as they do now these
- things didn’t happen.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(severely)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I never approved of Janet’s bicycling you remember, Jane.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nor did I, Harriet. But it was no use. Janet only laughed. Janet never
- would do what she was told about things even when she was quite a child.
- She was so very obstinate. She was always getting some idea or other into
- her head. And when she did nothing would prevent her from carrying it out.
- At one time she wanted to <i>teach</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- I remember.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She said girls ought to go out and earn their own living like boys.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- What nonsense!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- So Hugo said. But Janet wouldn’t listen. Finally we had to let her go over
- and teach the Aldenham girls French three times a week, just to keep her
- amused.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(thoughtfully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- It was strange you never could find out who the father was.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sighs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes. She wouldn’t tell us.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- You should have made her tell you. Hugo should have insisted on it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hugo did insist. He was terribly angry with her. He sent her to her room
- and said she was not to come down till she told us. But it was no use.
- Janet just stayed in her room till we had all gone to bed and then took
- the train to London.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- You should have locked her door.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- We did. She got out of the window.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Got out of the window! The girl might have been killed.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. But Janet was always fond of climbing. And she was never afraid of
- anything.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- But there’s no late train to London.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She caught the mail at Weymouth, I suppose.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Do you mean to say she <i>walked</i> all the way to Weymouth in the middle
- of the night? Why, it’s twelve miles.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She had her bicycle as I said.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Tck!... How did you know she went to London?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She wrote from there, for her things.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- I wonder she wasn’t ashamed.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- So Hugo said. However, he said I might send them. But he made me send a
- letter with the things to say that he would have nothing more to do with
- her and that she was not to write again. For a time she didn’t write.
- Nearly five months. Then, when her baby was born, she wrote to tell me.
- That was how I knew she had taken the name of Seagrave. She mentioned it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Did you show the letter to Hugo?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- What did he say?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nothing. He just read it and gave it back to me without a word.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- That’s the last you’ve heard of her, I suppose?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh no, Harriet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Do you mean to say she goes <i>on</i> writing? And you allow her? When
- Hugo said she was not to?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(meekly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes. Not often, Harriet. Only occasionally.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- She has no business to write at all.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Her letters are quite short. Sometimes I wish they were longer. They
- really tell one nothing about herself, though I often ask her.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- You <i>ask</i> her! Then <i>you</i> write too!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I answer her letters, of course. Otherwise she wouldn’t go on writing. ‘
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Really, Jane, I’m surprised at you. So you’ve actually been corresponding
- with Janet all these years—and never told <i>me!</i> I think you’ve
- behaved very badly.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I didn’t like to, Harriet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Didn’t like to!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- And as you don’t think I <i>ought</i> to hear from her....
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON.
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t think you ought to hear from her, of course. But as you do hear
- naturally I should like to have seen the letters.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I didn’t know that, Harriet. In fact, I thought you would rather not. When
- a dreadful thing like this happens in a family it seems best not to write
- about it or to speak of it either, doesn’t it? Hugo and I never speak of
- it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Does Hugo know you hear from her?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I think not. I have never told him. Nor Hester. I’m sure Hester would
- disapprove.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear Jane, what <i>can</i> it matter whether Hester approves or not?
- Hester knows nothing about such things. At <i>her</i> age!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hester is twenty-eight.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Exactly. A girl like that.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sighs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Girls have such very strong opinions nowadays. Mrs. Clouston
- </p>
- <p>
- What does Janet live on? Teaching?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I suppose so. She had her Aunt Miriam’s legacy, of four hundred pounds of
- course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Only four hundred pounds.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- I never approved of that legacy, Jane. Girls oughtn’t to have money left
- them. It makes them too independent.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Aunt Miriam was always so fond of Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Then she should have left the money to Hugo. Fathers are the proper people
- to leave money to.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hugo did have the <i>management</i> of the money—till Janet was
- twenty-one.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why only till she was twenty-one?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- It was so in Aunt Miriam’s will. Of course, Hugo would have gone on
- managing it for her. It was very little trouble as it was all in Consols.
- But Janet said she would rather look after it for herself.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Ridiculous! As if girls could possibly manage money!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- So Hugo said. But Janet insisted. So she got her way.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- What did she do with it? Spend it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. Put it into a Railway, she said.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- A Railway! How dangerous!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She said she would prefer it. She said Railways sometimes went up. Consols
- never.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- She lost it all, of course?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t know, Harriet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- You don’t <i>know?</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. I never liked to ask. Hugo was rather hurt about the whole thing, so
- the subject was never referred to.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Let me see. The child must be eight years old by now.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Just eight. It will be nine years next March since Janet went away.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- What did she call him?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Johnny.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Johnny! None of the De Mullins have ever been called <i>Johnny</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Perhaps it was his father’s name.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Perhaps so <i>(pause)</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Do you think I ought to tell Hugo about Janet’s coming?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Certainly.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I thought perhaps....
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nonsense, Jane. Of course, he must be told. You ought to have told him
- from the very beginning?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Do you mean when I sent the telegram? But Hugo was unconscious.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- As soon as he recovered consciousness then.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I did mean to. But he seemed so weak, and Dr. Rolt said any excitement....
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Dr. Rolt!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(goaded)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, I couldn’t tell that Dr. Rolt knew so little about Hugo’s illness,
- could I? And I was afraid of the shock.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Still, he should have been told at once. It was the only chance.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. I see that now. But I was afraid of the shock, as I said. So I put it
- off. And then, when I didn’t hear from Janet, I thought I would wait.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You see I didn’t know whether she was coming. And if she didn’t come, of
- course there was no necessity for telling Hugo anything about it. I’m
- afraid he’ll be very angry.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- At any rate, you must tell him now. The sooner the better.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(meekly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Very well, Harriet. If you think so.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- You had better go up to him at once.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Mrs. De Mullin goes to the door on the left, opens it, then draws back
- hastily</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Here <i>is</i> Hugo. He’s just coming across the hall. With Hester. How
- unlucky.
- </p>
- <p>
- MRS. CLOUSTON I don’t see that it matters.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’d rather not have told him before Hester.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Mrs. Clouston shrugs her shoulders. A moment later Hugo enters. He
- leans on a stick and Hester’s arm. He looks weak and pale and altogether
- extremely sorry for himself, obviously a nervous and a very tiresome
- patient.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Carefully, father. That’s right. Will you lie on the sofa?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(fretfully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No. Put me in the armchair. I’m tired of lying down.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very well. Let me help you. There. Wait a moment. I’ll fetch you some
- pillows.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Props him up on pillows in an armchair.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Thank you.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Lies back exhausted and closes his eyes.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(going to him)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- How are you feeling now, Hugo?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very weak.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I wonder if you ought to have come down?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- It won’t make any difference. Nothing will make any difference any more,
- Jane. I shan’t last much longer. I’m worn out.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Father!
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, Hester. Worn out <i>(with a sort of melancholy pride)</i>. None of
- the De Mullins have been strong. I’m the last of them. The last of the De
- Mullins.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Come, Hugo, you mustn’t talk in that morbid way.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’m not morbid, Harriet. But I feel tired, tired.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You’ll be better in a day or two.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, Jane. I shall never be better. Never in <i>this</i> world <i>(pause).</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nervously)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Hugo... there’s something... something I have to tell you....
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- What is it, Jane? <i>(fretfully)</i>. What have you been keeping from me?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I ought to have told you before. Only I didn’t like...
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Is it something about my illness?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh no, Hugo.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(relieved)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I thought Dr. Rolt might have said something.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- It’s nothing of that kind.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(peevishly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, well, what is it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hugo, some one is coming here to-day, to see <i>you</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- To see <i>me?</i> Who?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You won’t be angry, Hugo?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(testily)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- How can I possibly say that, Jane, when I don’t know who it is?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hugo, it’s... (Bell rings loudly.) Harriet, there’s the bell! I wonder if
- it’s she? Do you think it is?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>All look towards the door on the right, expectantly.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(querulously)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, Jane? <i>Am</i> I to hear who this visitor is or am I not?
- </p>
- <h4>
- ELLEN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(showing in a lady leading a little boy by the hand)</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. SEAGRAVE
- </h4>
- <p>
- [<i>Enter Janet and Johnny!. Janet is a very handsome woman of
- six-and-thirty. She is admirably dressed, but her clothes are quiet and in
- excellent taste, dark in colour and plain in cut but expensive. Her hat is
- particularly tasteful, but also quiet. Her clothes are in marked contrast
- to those of her mother and sister which are of the homeliest description
- and were probably made in the village. Johnny is a well-grown youngster of
- eight in a sailor suit.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shocked)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Mother!
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, my dear! <i>(cry of welcome)</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Father! <i>(Drops Johnny’s hand, comes rapidly to him, falls on one knee
- and kisses him impulsively, patting his left hand with her right.)</i> How
- are you? Better? <i>(holding out her left hand to her mother but still
- kneeling)</i>. How do you do, mother dear? <i>(Mrs. De Mullin takes it.
- Puts her other hand on Janet’s shoulder.)</i> I should have come before,
- father, directly you sent for me. But your telegram was delayed. I was
- away from home.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nods)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I see.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Have you been very ill, father? And did you frighten them all dreadfully?
- How naughty of you!
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Silly Janet! Let me look at you, my dear. <i>(Looks at her face as she
- holds it up.)</i> You’re not much changed, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nor are you, father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- A little greyer, perhaps.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No! Not a hair!
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, my dear, Pm glad you’ve come. We parted in anger, but that’s all
- over now. Forgotten and forgiven. Eh?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Forgotten and forgiven <i>(rises)</i>. How are <i>you</i>, Aunt
- Harriet? I didn’t see you. <i>(Eagerly)</i> Hester!
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Goes to her impulsively, holding out her hand. Hester takes it coldly.
- Janet tries to draw her towards her. Hester resists. She drops her hand
- and Hester turns away.]</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Who is that? <i>(pointing to Johnny)</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- (turning to him)
- </p>
- <p>
- That is Johnny. My son.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- My grandson?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. I <i>had</i> to bring him, father. We were away from home and there
- was no one to leave him with.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’m glad you brought him. Come here, Johnny. Don’t be afraid.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(in his confident treble)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I’m not afraid. Why should I be afraid?
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Goes to him</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(taking his hand)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Say “How do you do, grandfather.”
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- How do you do, grandfather?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Will you give me a kiss, Johnny?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- If you like, grandfather.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Kisses him.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- That’s a good boy.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Kiss your grandmother too, Johnny.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Mrs. De Mullin snatches him up and kisses him passionately. Then holds
- him a little way off and looks at him admiringly.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- What a fine little fellow, Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(proudly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Isn’t he, mother? And so strong and healthy! He’s hardly had a day’s
- illness since he was born.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(who has been staring at the pictures on the walls, holding his
- grandmother by one hand)</i>.
- </p>
- <p>
- Who are all these old men, grandfather?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Your ancestors, my boy.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- What’s ancestors?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Your forefathers. Your mother’s forefathers,
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Is that old man in the wig an ancestor?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. That is Anthony De Mullin, your great-great-grandfather.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- What was <i>he?</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- (puzzled)
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>What</i> was he? I don’t know that he was anything in particular. He
- was just a gentleman.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(disappointed)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Is that all?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Don’t make any mistake, my boy. It’s a great thing to be descended from
- gentle-people, a thing to be proud of and to be thankful for.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mother says the great thing is for every one to be of some use in the
- world. Are gentle-people of more use in the world than other people,
- grandfather?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Certainly.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- And were all these old men gentle-people?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- All of them. And you must grow up like them.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- They’re very <i>ugly</i>, grandfather <i>(pause)</i>. What did they do?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- They lived down here at Brendon.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nothing else?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- They looked after their land.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Had they much land?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- A great deal. At one time the De Mullins owned all the land about here.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- How much do they own now?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sighs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Not very much, I’m afraid.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Then they can’t have looked after it very well, can they, grandfather?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(feeling the strain of this conversation)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Now, Hugo, do you think you ought to talk any more? Why not go upstairs
- for a little and lie down?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Perhaps I will, Jane. I <i>am</i> a little tired.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Shall I go with father?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. I will. Come, Hugo <i>(helps him up)</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Will you come, with me, Johnny?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(hastily)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No, Hugo. He will only disturb you. Stay down here, Johnny, with your
- mother. Now then. Carefully.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Leads De Mullin off by the door on the left. There is a pause, during
- which the remaining occupants of the room obviously have nothing in
- particular to say to each other. At last Mrs. Clouston speaks.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, Janet, how have you been all these years?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nonchalantly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- All right, Aunt Harriet. And you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Pretty well, thanks.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Are you still living down at Bath?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. You live in London, Jane tells me.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- What do you do there? Teach?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh no. Why should I be teaching?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Jane said you wanted to teach at one time.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- That was years ago. Before I left Brendon. soon gave up that idea. No. I
- keep a shop.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- A shop!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. A hat-shop
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Good heavens! A De Mullin in a hat-shop!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(a little maliciously)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Not a De Mullin, Aunt Harriet. A Seagrave.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Did Mr. Seagrave keep a hat-shop?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mr. Seagrave?... oh, I see. No. It’s not a man’s hat shop. It’s a lady’s
- <i>(takes off hat)</i>. This is one of ours. What do you think of it,
- Hester?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(frostily)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- It looks very expensive.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(looking at it critically)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes, I own I’m rather pleased with it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(acidly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- You seem to be able to dress very well altogether, in spite of the shop.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(correcting her)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Because of it, Aunt Harriet. That’s the advantage of being what is called
- “in trade.” If I were a school teacher or a governess or something genteel
- of that kind I could only afford to dress like a pauper. But as I keep a
- shop I can dress like a lady. Clothes are a question of money, after all,
- aren’t they?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(contemptuously)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- If one is in a shop it doesn’t matter how one dresses.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- On the contrary if one is in a shop it matters a great deal. A girl in a
- shop <i>must</i> dress well. The business demands it. If you ever start a
- hat-shop, Aunt Harriet, you’ll have to dress very differently. Otherwise
- nobody will buy your hats.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Indeed? Fortunately I’ve no intention of starting a shop of any kind.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(blandly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No! Well, I expect you’re wise. I doubt if you’d make a success of it.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Loud ring heard off.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(rather flustered—gasps)</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- I hope that’s not a visitor. <i>(Janet stares Then laughs good-humouredly.
- Aunt Harriet’s nervous desire to keep her out of the way of visitors
- strikes her as amusing.)</i> What are you laughing at, Janet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shrugs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Nothing, Aunt Harriet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- ELLEN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(showing in)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Miss Deanes. Mr. Brown.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Miss Deanes is a bulky, red-faced, shortsighted woman of forty-two,
- very fussy and absurd in manner, who talks very fast. Brown carries a
- book.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- How do you do, Mrs. Clouston. <i>Such</i> a piece of news! I felt I <i>must</i>
- tell you. I brought Mr. Brown with me. He was just leaving a book for you,
- Hester, so I made him come in.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Shakes hands with Hester.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Here it is, Miss De Mullin. It’s the one you wanted to borrow. <i>Blore on
- the Creeds</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Thank you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(seeing Janet for first time)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet! Is that you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, Miss Deanes. How are you?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Shakes hands.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- Good gracious, child, when did you come? Why, you’ve not been down to
- Brendon for years.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- It is a long time, isn’t it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- And who is this young gentleman?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Noticing Johnny who is holding Janet’s hand and staring at Miss
- Deanes.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(calmly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- That is my son. Shake hands with Miss Deanes, Johnny.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(astonished)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Your son! There now! And I never knew you were even married!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quite at her ease)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Didn’t you!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- No.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nervously)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I forgot. I haven’t introduced you. Mr. Brown—Mrs. Seagrave.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(bows)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- How do you do.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(turning to Miss Deanes again)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- And now what is your piece of news, Miss Deanes?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(volubly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh yes. I <i>must</i> tell you. You’d never guess. Somebody <i>else</i> is
- engaged to be married, <i>(to Janet)</i> Who do you think?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’ve no idea.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- Bertha Aldenham—to Mr. Bulstead.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(starts)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Mr. Bulstead?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. But I forgot. <i>You</i> wouldn’t know <i>them</i>. They didn’t come
- here till long after you went away. They bought Brendon Park from the
- Malcolms three years ago. You remember the Malcolms, Janet? Janet <i>(whose
- attention has wandered)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Eh? Oh yes, of course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Which Mr. Bulstead is it? The eldest?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Montague.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(under her breath)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Monty Bulstead! Engaged!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Are the Aldenhams pleased?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very, I expect. The Bulsteads are so rich, you see.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Does he live down here; this Mr. Montagu Bulstead, I mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh no. He’s here on leave. He’s in the army. He only got back three months
- ago <i>(with a little giggle)</i>. He and Bertha haven’t taken long to
- settle things, have they?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, they haven’t taken long.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- But I dare say he <i>will</i> live here when he’s married. As the
- Bulsteads are so rich.- The father makes frilling and lace and so on. All
- those things people used to make so much better by hand. And Bertha may
- not care about army life. I know I shouldn’t. <i>(Janet smiles
- discreetly.)</i> It’s not always very <i>nice</i>, is it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(to Johnny who has been staring at him roundeyed across the room, with
- heavy geniality)</i>.
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, young man. Who are you staring at, eh? Do <i>you</i> want to talk to
- me?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quite simply, in his high piping treble)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No, thank you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Sh! Johnny! You don’t mean that. Go to Mr. Brown when he speaks to you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very well, Mummie.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Does so slowly</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(taking his hands)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Now then what shall we talk about, you and I?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Don’t you? Suppose we see if you can say your catechism then? Would you
- like <i>that</i>?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- What’s catechism?
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Come, Johnny, I’m sure your mother has taught you your catechism.. Can you
- repeat your “Duty towards your Neighbour”? <i>(Johnny shakes his head
- emphatically)</i>. Try “My duty towards my neighbour....
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mother says it’s every one’s duty to be healthy and to be happy! Is that
- what you mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(scandalized)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No! No!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, that’s what mother taught me.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(coming to the rescue)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I’m afraid he doesn’t know his catechism yet, Mr. Brown. You see he’s only
- eight. <i>(Brown bows stiffly.)</i> Run away, Johnny, and play in the
- garden for a little.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Leads him to the door in the bay.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- All right, Mummie.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Johnny runs out into the garden. A certain relief is perceptible on
- his departure. It is felt that his interview with Mr. Brown has not been a
- success.</i>...
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(who feels that a change of subject will be only tactful)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- There now, Hester! I do believe you’ve never asked after Dicky! He’ll be
- so offended!
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(smiling)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Has Dicky been ill again? I thought you said he was better yesterday.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- He was. But he had a relapse, poor <i>darling</i>. I had to sit up all
- last night with him!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- What has been the matter with him?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- Some sort of chill, Dr. Rolt said. I was <i>dreadfully</i> anxious.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- What a pity! ‘Colds are such troublesome things for children.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- (puzzled)
- </p>
- <p>
- Children?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. You were speaking of a child, weren’t you? Miss Deanes
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh no. Dicky is my <i>cockatoo</i>. He’s the <i>sweetest</i> bird. Talks
- quite like a human being. And never a coarse expression. That’s so unusual
- with cockatoos.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Indeed?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MISS DEANES
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. The voyage, you see. They come all the way from South America and
- generally they pick up the most dreadful language, poor lambs—from
- the sailors.
- </p>
- <p>
- But Dicky didn’t. He has such a pure mind <i>(rising)</i>. And now I
- really must be going. I have all kinds of people I want to tell about Mr.
- Bulstead’s engagement.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Shaking hands with Mrs. Clouston and Janet.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- BROWN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I must be off too. Wait one moment, Miss Deanes. Good-bye, Mrs. Clouston.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Shakes hands with Mrs. Clouston and bows stiffly to Janet. He has not
- yet forgiven Johnny for not knowing his catechism.</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>(To Hester.)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Good-bye, Miss De Mullin. Shall I see you at Evensong?
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Shakes hands with Hester.</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I expect so.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Poof!
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Brown and Miss Deanes go out.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- What a fool Miss Deanes is!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(indifferently)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- She always was, wasn’t she?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I suppose so. Going on in that way about her ridiculous cockatoo! And that
- <i>hideous</i> little curate!
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t see why you should sneer at all my friends.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Are they your friends, Hester? Then I won’t sneer at them. But you can’t
- call Mr. Brown <i>handsome</i>, can you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mr. Brown is a very good man and works very hard among the poor. That’s
- better than being handsome.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. But less agreeable, isn’t it? However, if <i>you</i> like him there’s
- an end of it. But he needn’t have begun asking Johnny his catechism the
- very first time he met him. I don’t call it good manners,
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- How was he to know the poor child was being brought up to be a little
- heathen?
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Takes up her hat and cape and begins putting them on.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shrugs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- How, indeed!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Are you going out, Hester? Lunch will be ready in half an hour. .
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Only to take Mrs. Wason her soup, Aunt Harriet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(looking curiously at Hester)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Do you want to marry Mr. Brown, Hester?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, Aunt Harriet, there’s nothing to be ashamed of if she does. Do you,
- Hester?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why do you ask such a question?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Never mind. Only answer it <i>(pause)</i>. You do like him, don’t you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’ve a great respect for Mr. Brown.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Don’t blush, my dear. I dare say that’s much the same thing.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- I won’t talk to you about it. You only sneer. Janet
- </p>
- <p>
- I wasn’t sneering. Come, Hester, don’t be cross. Why shouldn’t we be
- friends? I might help you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- How could <i>you</i> help me?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(looking quizzically at poor Hester’s headgear)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I might make you a hat, my dear.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mr. Brown doesn’t notice those things.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- All men notice those things, Hester.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(with a sneer)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I suppose that’s why <i>you</i> wear such fine clothes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quite good-humoured)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- That’s it. Fine feathers make fine birds.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, <i>I</i> call it shameless.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear Hester, you’re always being ashamed of things. You always were, I
- remember. What is there to be ashamed of in that? What on earth were women
- given pretty faces and pretty figures for if not to make men admire them
- and want to marry them?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(acidly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, <i>your</i> plan hasn’t been very successful so far, anyhow!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quietly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Nor has yours, Hester.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Hester makes exclamation of impatience and seems about to reply
- angrily. Then thinks better of it and goes out without a word. Janet
- follows her retreat with her eyes and smiles half cynically, half
- compassionately. The Curtain falls.</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- ACT II
- </h2>
- <p>
- <i>Scene:</i> On the edge of Brendon Forest.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>Time:</i> three days later. A road runs along the hack of the stage
- front which it is separated by a fence and high hedge. In this hut
- somewhat to the right is a stile and also a gate. Round the trunk of a
- large tree to the left is a rough wooden seat. The stage is empty when the
- curtain rises. Fhen enter Mrs. De Mullin, Janet and Johnny. They approach
- stile from the left and come through gate. There isan exit on the right of
- the stage through the Forest.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t think I’ll come any farther, mother.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You won’t come up to the house?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, thanks <i>(rather grimly)</i>. I don’t want to see Mrs. Bulstead. And
- I’m sure Mrs. Bulstead doesn’t want to see me.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I wish Hester could have come.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why couldn’t she?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She’s at the church putting up the decorations. It’s the Harvest
- Thanksgiving to-morrow.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(laughing)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Mr. Brown!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, I told you you weren’t to laugh at Hester about Mr. Brown. It’s not
- kind.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(lightly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- It’s all right mother. Hester’s not here.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Still, I don’t like it, dear. It’s not quite...
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(soothing her)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Not quite <i>nice</i>. I know, mother. Not the way really refined and
- ladylike young women talk. But I’m only quite a common person who sells
- hats. You can’t expect all these refinements from <i>me!</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Mrs. De Mullin sighs.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Are you going to turn back?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not at once. I’ll wait for you here a little with Johnny in case they’re
- out. Why, they’ve put a seat here. [<i>She sits on the side farthest from
- the road.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Usen’t there to be one?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. Nor a gate in my time. Only a stile.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very likely, dear. I don’t remember. I don’t often come this way.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nods)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I often used to come along it in the old days.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I dare say. Well, I must be getting on to my call or I shall be late.
- You’re sure you won’t come?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Quite, mother. Good-bye.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Mrs. De Mullin goes of through the forest.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Where’s grandmother going, Mummie?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Up to the big house.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- What big house?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Brendon Park.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mayn’t I go up to the big house too?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, dear. You’re to stay with mother.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Who lives at the big house?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nobody you know, dear.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- That’s why I asked, Mummie.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, don’t ask any more, sonny. Mother’s rather tired. Run away and play,
- there’s a good boy.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Kisses him.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very well, Mummie.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Johnny disappears into the wood. Janet falls into a brown study.
- Presently a footstep is heard coming along the roady but she seems to
- notice nothing. Then a young man climbs over the stile. He starts as he
- sees her and draws back, then advances eagerly, holding out his hand.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, is that <i>you!</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(smiling)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(astonished)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- JANET! Here!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nodding over his shoulder)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>Our</i> stile, Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Our stile.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nods)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- The stile where you and I first met.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(relapsing for a moment into something like sentiment)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes. I thought I must see it again—for the sake of old times.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- How long ago it all seems!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(matter of fact)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- It is a longish time, you know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(thoughtfully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I believe that was the happiest month of my life, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Was it, Monty?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes <i>(pause)</i>. I say, when did you come down? You don’t <i>live</i>
- at home any longer, do you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. I only came down three days ago.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- By Jove it <i>is</i> good to see you again. Why, it’s eight years since we
- used to be together, you and I.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nearly nine.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes... You’re not coming to live down here again, are you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No; why?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I thought perhaps...
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(cynically)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Would you dislike it very much if I did, Monty?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course not.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Confess. You <i>did</i> feel it would be rather awkward?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, of course...
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- However you can set your mind at rest. I’m not. [<i>His relief at this
- intelligence enables him to realize the pleasure he is getting from seeing
- her again.</i>)
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I say, Janet, how well you’re looking! I believe you’re handsomer than
- ever.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- (smiling)
- </p>
- <p>
- Am I?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You know you are.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Pause. He looks at her admiringly. She turns away with a little smile.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(feeling that they are getting on to dangerous ground)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, Monty. Where have you been these eight years?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Abroad with my regiment. We’ve been ordered all over the place. I’ve been
- home on leave, of course. But not for the last three years. Not since
- father bought the Park. I’ve never been at Brendon since ... <i>(pause)</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Since we were here? Don’t blush, Monty. <i>(He nods shamefacedly.)</i> How
- did he come to buy the place?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- It was just a chance. He saw it advertised, came and looked at it and
- bought it. He’s no idea I was ever at Brendon before <i>(rather bitter
- laugh)</i>. None of them have. I have to pretend not to know my way about.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- It seems safer. <i>(Janet nods.)</i> Sometimes I almost forget to keep it
- up. I’m such a duffer about things. But I’ve managed hitherto. And now, of
- course, it’s all right as I’ve been here three months. I may be supposed
- to know the beastly place by this time.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Beastly? You’re not very polite.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Monty laughs shamefacedly</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You got my note, didn’t you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- What note?... Oh, eight years ago, you mean? Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I left it with the woman at the lodgings. As you were coming over that
- afternoon, I thought it safer than sending a message. And of course I
- daren’t telegraph. <i>(Janet nods.)</i> I was awfully sick at having to go
- away like that. All in a moment. Without even saying good-bye. But I had
- to.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course. Was your mother badly hurt?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. Only stunned. That was such rot. If people get chucked out of a
- carriage they must expect to get stunned. But of course they couldn’t
- know. The telegram just said “Mother hurt. Carriage accident. Come at
- once.” It got to me at the lodgings a couple of hours before you were
- coming. I had just time to chuck my things into a bag and catch the train.
- I wanted to come back after the mater was all right again. But I couldn’t
- very well, could I?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why not?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, the regiment was to sail in less than three weeks and the mater
- would have thought it rather rough if I’d gone away again. I’d been away
- six weeks as it was.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh yes. Of course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(with half a sigh)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- To think if I hadn’t happened to be riding along that road and seen you at
- the stile and asked my way, you and I might never have met. What a chance
- life is!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nods)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Just a chance <i>(pause)</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why did you go away, Janet? You weren’t going the last time I saw you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Wasn’t I?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. At least you said nothing about it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I didn’t know I was going then. Not for certain.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why <i>did</i> you go?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quietly)</i> I had to, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(puzzled)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- You had to? <i>(Janet nods.)</i>But why?
- </p>
- <p>
- Mother found out.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- About us?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. And she told father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(genuinely distressed)</i> Oh, Janet! I’m so sorry.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shrugs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- It couldn’t be helped,
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Does he know who it was?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Who <i>you</i> were? No.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You didn’t tell him?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- MONTY! As if I should.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t know. Girls generally do.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>I</i> didn’t.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. I suppose you wouldn’t. But you’re different from most girls. Do you
- know there was always something rather splendid about you, Janet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- (curtseys)
- </p>
- <p>
- Thank you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I wonder he didn’t <i>make</i> you tell.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- He did try of course. That was why I ran away.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I see. Where did you go to?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- London.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- To London? All alone? (Janet nods) Why did you do that? And why didn’t you
- let me know?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shrugs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- You were out of England by that time.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- But why London?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I had to go somewhere. And it seemed better to go where I shouldn’t be
- known. Besides it’s easier to be lost sight of in a crowd.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- But what did you do when you got there?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(calmly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I got a place in a shop, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- A shop? You!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, a hat-shop, in Regent Street. My dear Monty, don’t gape like that.
- Hat-shops are perfectly respectable places. Almost too respectable to
- judge by the fuss two of them made about employing <i>me</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- What do you mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, when I applied to them for work they naturally asked if I had ever
- worked in a hat-shop before. And when I said “No” they naturally asked why
- I wanted to begin. In the innocence of my heart I told them. Whereupon
- they at once refused to employ me—not in the politest terms.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Poor Janet. What beastly luck! Still...
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Hesitates.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, Monty?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I mean naturally they couldn’t be expected...
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>(flustered)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- At least I don’t mean that exactly.
- </p>
- <p>
- Only... [<i>Stops.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear Monty, I quite understand what you mean. You needn’t trouble to be
- explicit. Naturally they couldn’t be expected to employ an abandoned
- person like me to trim hats. That was exactly their view.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- But I thought you said you <i>did</i> get a place in a shop? Janet
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes. But not at either of <i>those</i> shops. They were <i>far</i> too
- virtuous.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- How did you do it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Told lies, Monty. I believe that’s how most women get employment.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Told lies?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. I invented a husband, recently deceased, bought several yards of
- crêpe and a wedding ring. This is the ring.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Takes off glove.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, Janet, how beastly for you!
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Janet shrugs</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(laughing)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Everything seems to be “Beastly” to you, Monty. Brendon and telling lies
- and lots of other things. Luckily I’m less superfine.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Didn’t they find out?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. That was why I decided to be a widow. It made inquiries more
- difficult.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I should have thought it made them easier.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- On the contrary. You can’t cross-question a widow about a recent
- bereavement. If you do she cries. I always used to look tearful directly
- my husband’s name was even mentioned. So they gave up mentioning it. Women
- are so boring when they will cry.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- They might have inquired from other people.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why should they? Besides there was no one to inquire from. I called him
- Seagrave—and drowned him at sea. You can’t ask questions of the
- sharks.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, Janet, how can you joke about it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I couldn’t—then. I wanted work-too badly. But I can now—with
- your kind permission, I mean.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- And you’ve been at the shop ever since?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not <i>that</i> shop. I was only there about six months —till baby
- was born, in fact...
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(horrified)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet, there was a baby!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course there was a baby.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, Janet! And you never wrote! Why didn’t you write?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I did think of it. But on the whole I thought I wouldn’t. It would have
- been no good.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- No good?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- You were in India.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I was in England.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not then.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You ought to have written at once—directly your mother found out.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- One week after you sailed, Monty <i>(defiantly)</i>. Besides why should I
- write?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why? I could have married you, of course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- If I’d asked you, you mean? Thank you, my dear Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, I don’t. Of course I should have married you. I <i>must</i> have
- married you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(looking at him thoughtfully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I wonder if you would.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Certainly I should. I should have been bound in honour.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I see. Then I’m glad I never wrote.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You’re <i>glad?</i> Now?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. I’ve done some foolish things in my life, Monty, but none quite so
- foolish as that. To marry a schoolboy, not because he loves you or wants
- to marry you but because he thinks he’s “bound in honour.” No, thank you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t mean that. You know I don’t, Janet. I loved you, of course. That
- goes without saying. I’d have married you like a shot before, only the
- Governor would have made such a fuss. The Governor was so awfully
- straitlaced about this sort of thing. When I was sent away from Eton he
- made the most ghastly fuss.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Were you sent away from Eton for “this sort of thing”?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes—at least I don’t mean that either. But it was about a girl
- there. He was frightfully wild. He threatened to cut me off if I ever did
- such a thing again. Such rot! As if no one had ever been sent away from
- school before!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(reflectively)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I didn’t know you’d been sent away from Eton.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Didn’t you? I suppose I didn’t like to tell you-for fear of what you’d
- think <i>(bitterly)</i>. I seem to have been afraid of everything in those
- days. .
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not <i>everything</i>, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, you know what I mean. I was awfully afraid of the Governor, I
- remember. I suppose all boys are if their parents rag them too much. But I
- would have married you, Janet, if I’d known. I would honestly.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(blandly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- What is the pay of a British subaltern, Monty?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- The Governor would have had to stump up, of course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Poor Mr. Bulstead! He’d have <i>liked</i> that, I suppose? And what about
- your poor unhappy colonel? And all the other little subalterns?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(obstinately)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Still, you ought to have written.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quietly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>You</i> never wrote.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I couldn’t. You know that. You never would let me. That was why I couldn’t
- send that note to you to tell you I was going away. You said my letters
- would be noticed.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, I forgot that. That’s the result of having a father who is what is
- called old-fashioned.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- What do you mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- All letters to the Manor House are delivered locked in a bag. They always
- have been since the Flood, I believe, or at least since the invention of
- the postal service. And, of course, father won’t have it altered, So every
- morning there’s the ritual of unlocking this absurd bag. No one is allowed
- to do that but father—unless he is ill. Then mother has the
- privilege. And of course he. scrutinizes the outside of every letter and
- directly it’s opened asks who it’s from and what’s inside it. Your letters
- would have been noticed at once.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- How beastly!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- The penalty of having nothing to do, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I know. What a mess the whole thing is!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Just so. No. There was no way out of it except the hat-shop.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(remorsefully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- It’s awfully rough on you, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Never mind. I dare say I wasn’t cut out for the wife of a subaltern,
- Monty; whereas I make excellent hats.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(savagely)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- You’re still making the d———d things?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Only at another shop. The Regent Street place had no room for me when
- I was well enough to go back to work. But the woman who kept it gave me a
- recommendation to a friend who was starting in Hanover Street. A most
- superior quarter for a hatshop, Monty. In fact <i>the</i> superior
- quarter. Claude et Cie was the name.
- </p>
- <p>
- (Monty <i>(rather shocked)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- A <i>French</i> shop?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No more French than you are, Monty. It was kept by a Miss Hicks, one of
- the most thoroughly British people you can possibly imagine. But we called
- ourselves Claude et Cie in order to be able to charge people more for
- their hats. You can always charge fashionable women more for their clothes
- if you pretend to be French. It’s one of the imbecilities of commerce. So
- poor dear Miss Hicks became Madame Claude and none of our hats cost less
- than seven guineas.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Do people buy hats at such a price?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh yes. Everybody in Society bought them. Claude et Cie was quite the rage
- that Season. Nobody who was anybody went anywhere else.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- She must have made a great deal of money.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- On the contrary. She made nothing at all and narrowly escaped bankruptcy.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- But I don’t understand. If her hats were so dear and everybody bought
- them?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Everybody <i>bought</i> them but nobody <i>paid</i> for them. In the
- highest social circles I believe people never do pay for anything—certainly
- not for their clothes. At least, nobody paid Miss Hicks, and at the end of
- six months she was owed £1,200 and hadn’t a penny to pay her rent.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why didn’t she <i>make</i> them pay.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- She did dun them, of course, but they only ordered more hats to keep her
- quiet which didn’t help Miss Hicks much. And when she went on dunning them
- they said they should withdraw their custom. In fact, she was in a
- dilemma. If she let the bills run on she couldn’t pay her rent. And if she
- asked her customers to pay their bills they ceased to be customers.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- How beastly!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not again, Monty!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- What <i>did</i> she do?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- She didn’t do anything. She was too depressed. She used to sit in the back
- room where the hats were trimmed and weep over the materials, regardless
- of expense. Finally things came to a crisis. The landlord threatened to
- distrain for his rent. But just as it looked as if it was all over with
- Claude et Cie a capitalist came to the rescue. <i>I</i> was the
- capitalist.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. I’d an old Aunt once who was fond of me and left me a legacy when I
- was seventeen. Four hundred pounds.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- That wouldn’t go very far.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Four hundred pounds goes a longish way towards setting up a shop. Besides,
- it was nearly five hundred by that time. My shares had gone up. Well, I
- and my five hundred pounds came to the rescue. I paid the rent and the
- most clamorous of the creditors, and Miss Hicks and I became partners.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- But what was the good of that if the business was worth nothing?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- It was worth several hundred pounds to any one, who had the pluck to sue
- half the British aristocracy. I sued them. It was tremendous fun. They
- were simply furious. They talked as if they’d never been sued before! As
- for Miss Hicks she wept more than ever and said I’d ruined the business.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hadn’t you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- That business. Yes. But with the £1,200—or as much of it as we could
- recover—we started a new one. A cheap hat-shop. Relatively cheap
- that is-for Hanover Street. We charged two guineas a hat instead of seven,
- 100 per cent, profit instead of... You can work it out for yourself. But
- then our terms were strictly cash, so we made no bad debts. That was my
- idea.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- But you said nobody ever paid for their hats.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not in the highest social circles. But we drew our customers from the
- middle classes who live in South Kensington and Bayswater, and are not too
- haughty to pay for a hat if they see a cheap one.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- But wasn’t it a frightful risk?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(cheerfully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- It was a risk, of course. But everything in life is a risk, isn’t it? And
- it succeeded, as I felt sure it would. We’re quite a prosperous concern
- nowadays, and I go over to Paris four times a year to see the latest
- fashions. That, my dear Monty, is the history of Claude et Cie.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Pause.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- And you’ve never married, Janet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No.
- </p>
- <p>
- MONTY {hesitates)
- </p>
- <p>
- Is it because...?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Because?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Because you still care for me?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Monty, don’t be vain.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(repelled)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I didn’t mean it like that. Janet, don’t laugh. Of course, I’m glad if you
- don’t care any more. At least, I suppose I ought to be glad. It would have
- been dreadful if you had gone on caring all these years and I not known.
- But did you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, Monty, I didn’t. You may set your mind at rest.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You’re sure?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Quite. I had too many other things to think of.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Do you mean that beastly shop?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quietly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I meant my baby.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>Our</i> baby. Is it alive?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course. What do you mean, Monty?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I thought, as you didn’t say... <i>(thoughtfully)</i> Poor little beast!
- <i>(Janet makes gesture of protest.)</i> Well, it’s rough luck on the
- little beggar, isn’t it? What’s become of him, Janet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- What’s <i>become</i> of him! My dear Monty, what should have become of
- him? He’s quite alive as I said and particularly thriving.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Do you mean he’s <i>living</i> with you!.. But, of course, I forgot,
- you’re supposed to be married.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(correcting him)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- A widow, Monty. An inconsolable widow!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Where is he? In London?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. As a matter of fact he’s probably not fifty yards away. Over there.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Points towards the wood.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(jumping up)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet! <i>(nervously looking round)</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(rallying him)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Frightened, Monty?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course not <i>(shamefacedly)</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Just a little?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(regaining courage)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet, let me see him.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(amused)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Would you like to?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course I should. He’s <i>my</i> baby as well as yours if it comes to
- that. Do call him, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- All right, <i>(calls)</i> Johnny! <i>(pause)</i> John... ny! <i>(‘To
- Monty)</i> You mustn’t tell him, you know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course not.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(off r.)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes, Mummie.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Come here for a minute. Mother wants to speak to you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(off)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Very well, Mummie. <i>(Enters r.)</i> Oh, Mummie, I’ve found such a lot of
- rabbits. You must come and see them. <i>(Seeing Monty for the first time,
- stares at him.)</i> Oh!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Come here, youngster. Come and let me look at you. <i>(Johnny goes to him
- slowly. Monty, grasping both hands, draws him to him, looking at him long
- and keenly.)</i> He’s like you, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Is he?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. He has your eyes. So your name’s Johnny, young man?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, Johnny, will you give me a kiss? <i>(Monty leans forward. He does
- so.)</i> That’s right.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- And now, Mummie, come and look at my rabbits.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not yet, dear. Mother’s busy just now.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- May I go back to them then?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Suppose I won’t let you go?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’ll make you—and so will Mummie.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Plucky little chap. Off with you.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Kisses him again, then releases his hands. Johnny trots off r. again.
- Monty follows him with his eyes. Pause.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, Monty, what do you think of him?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(enthusiastic)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I think he’s <i>splendid</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(proudly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Isn’t he? And such a sturdy little boy. He weighed ten pounds before he
- was a month old.
- </p>
- <p>
- I say, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shyly)</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(hesitates)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- You’ll let me kiss you once more, won’t you? For the last time?... <i>(she
- hesitates)</i>. You don’t mind?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(heartily)</i> .
- </p>
- <p>
- Of course not, Monty. You’re not <i>married</i> yet, you know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- JANET! My dear, dear Janet!
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Seizes her and kisses her fiercely.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(releasing herself gently)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- That’s enough, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(remorsefully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I’m afraid I behaved like an awful brute to you, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(lightly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh no.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, I did. I ought to have married you. I ought to marry you still. On
- account of the boy.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quite matter of fact)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh well, you can’t do that now in any case, can you —as you’re
- engaged to Bertha Aldenham.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You’ve heard about that? Who told you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- A worthy lady called Miss Deanes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I know. A regular sickener.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear Monty!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Sorry.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- She brought the good news. The very day I arrived as it happened. We’ve
- hardly talked of anything else at the Manor House since—except
- father’s illness, of course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- What else is there to talk about—in Brendon?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- That’s true. Isn’t it... <i>(stops himself, looks at watch. Whistles.)</i>
- Whew! [<i>Rises.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- What is it, Monty?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I say, Janet, I wonder if you’d mind going now?
- </p>
- <p>
- Why?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- [<i>She rises too.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(awkwardly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, the fact is I’m expecting some one here directly. I...
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Bertha?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. I was to meet her here at the stile at six.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>Our</i> stile, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes,... You don’t mind, do you—about my asking you to go, I mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sitting again)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Not in the least.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- But you’re not going?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why should I go?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, well, I thought——-
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- That it wouldn’t be quite suitable for us to meet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I didn’t mean that, of course. But I thought you mightn’t like—I
- mean it might be painful...
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Sits again.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- For me to see her? On the contrary, I’m dying to see her.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, sometimes I think you’re not quite human.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear boy, I’m extremely human—and therefore curious <i>(pause)</i>.
- What’s she like, Monty? Now, I mean. She promised to be pretty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- She is pretty, I suppose <i>(pause)</i>. I wonder if Bertha and I will
- ever have a son like Johnny!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Let’s hope so, Monty. For Bertha’s sake.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Isn’t that some one coming? <i>(pause, listens)</i>, I expect it’s she <i>(rising
- hastily and advancing towards stile)</i>. Is that you, Bertha?
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(at stile)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh! There you are. Yes. Isn’t it hot? <i>(entering by gate which he opens
- for her)</i>. Am I punctual? <i>(with a cry)</i> Janet! When did you come
- home?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Goes to her eagerly.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shaking hands)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Only three days ago.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Bertha kisses her.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>Only</i> three days! And you’ve never been up to see us.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I know. But with father ill
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course. I understand. I was only joking. How is Mr. De Mullin?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Much better. Not well yet, of course. But he gets stronger every day.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’m so glad. I say, Janet, do you remember when you used to teach us
- French?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- I was awfully troublesome, I remember.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I expect you were an awful duffer at it too, Bertha.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- What cheek!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Wasn’t she, Ja—<i>(pulls himself up)</i> Miss De Mullin?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Janet smiles nervously.</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh, yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- I didn’t know you’d met Janet, Monty? Why didn’t you tell us?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Quite unsuspicious of anything wrong. Merely curious.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- It was some time ago.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(surprised)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Not at Brendon? You’ve never been at Brendon before.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. It was at Weymouth. I was there getting over typhoid years ago.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- I remember, you told me. Eight or nine years ago, wasn’t it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes <i>(looks at watch)</i>. I say, Bertha, we must be off if we’re not to
- be late.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Give me two minutes to rest. The weather’s simply stifling.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Rot! It’s quite cool.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Then you must have been sitting here a long time. I’ve been walking along
- a dusty road and I’m not going to start yet. Besides I want to know all
- about you two meeting. Were you staying at Weymouth, Janet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh no. I just bicycled over. Mr. Bulstead ran into me.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I like that. She ran into <i>me</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Anyhow my front wheel buckled and he had to help me to put it right.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- What gallantry!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- It was. The beastly thing took about half an hour. By the time it was over
- we seemed to have known each other for a lifetime <i>(looks at watch)</i>.
- Two minutes is up. Time to start, Bertha.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- It isn’t.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- It is. You’ll be late for dressing to a certainty if you don’t go.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- I like that. I can dress as quickly as you if it comes to that.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh no. I can dress in ten minutes. I’ll give you a quarter of an hour’s
- start and be down in the drawing-room five minutes before you’re ready. Is
- it a bet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Done. In sixpences. <i>(To Janet)</i> I’m staying at the Park for a few
- days longer, Janet. Come up and see me, won’t you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(uncomfortably)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I’m afraid I can’t promise. On account of father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, after I’ve gone home then. Mother will want to see you. And so will
- Helen. And now I suppose I really must go. Come along, Monty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not I. I needn’t go for a quarter of an hour. You have a quarter of an
- hour’s start.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- All right. Good-bye, Janet <i>(kisses her)</i>. You won’t forget about
- coming as soon as you can? I go back home on Thursday.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I won’t forget. Good-bye. [<i>Bertha goes off through the wood. Janet
- watches her go and there is a pause.</i>) Yes, she <i>is</i> pretty,
- Monty. Very pretty.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nods)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- You don’t mind?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Her being pretty? Of course not. It’s a justification.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- A justification?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- For forgetting me
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(impulsively, seizing her hands)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet, I’ve never done that. You know I haven’t.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(drawing back)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No, Monty. Not again. [<i>Pause.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I say, I as nearly as possible called you Janet right out before Bertha.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- So I saw. You <i>did</i> call me Miss De Mullin, by the way,—which
- wasn’t very clever of you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Did I? What an ass I am! But I don’t suppose she noticed.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I dare say not. <i>(A shrill cry comes from the wood on the right. Then
- silence. Janet starts up.)</i> What was that?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I don’t know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- It sounded like a child. Where did it come from? Over here, didn’t it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- I think so.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(alarmed)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I hope Johnny... I must go and see... <i>(A moment later Johnny runs in,
- sobbing, followed by Mrs. De Mullin and Bertha.)</i> Johnny! What is it,
- my sweetheart?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Runs to him.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, Mummie, Mummie, I was running after the rabbits and I tripped over
- some nettles and they stung me.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- He put his foot in a hole, Janet. He fell just as I met Bertha <i>(shakes
- hands with Monty)</i>. How do you do Mr. Bulstead.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- There! There! my pet. Did it hurt very much? Mother shall kiss it and make
- it well.
- </p>
- <p>
- JOHNNY (sobs)
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh-h-h—- [<i>Does so.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Is he your son?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Don’t cry any more, dear. Brave boys don’t cry, you know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(gasps)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- It h-hurts so.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I know. But crying won’t make it hurt less, will it? So you must dry your
- eyes. Come now.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- All right, Mummie.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Stills sobs gradually.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(astonished)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I’d no idea you were married, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hadn’t you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. When was it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Eight years ago. Nearly nine. To Mr. Seagrave.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Is he down here with you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. My husband died soon after our marriage.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Poor Janet. I’m so sorry <i>(pause)</i>. And it was before your marriage
- that Monty met you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- How do you know?
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quite unsuspicious)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- He called you Miss De Mullin.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(pricking up her ears suspiciously at this.)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I didn’t know you had met my daughter before, Mr. Bulstead.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nor did I. They met down at Weymouth quite by chance eight or nine years
- ago.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(gravely)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Indeed?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes... I say, Bertha, excuse my interrupting you. but we really must be
- off now if we’re not to be late.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- You want to win that bet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- The bet’s off. There’s no time to give you any start. I must come too or I
- shan’t be in time myself and the Governor will simply curse.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- Is Mr. Bulstead <i>very</i> fierce if people are late for dinner?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Simply beastly.
- </p>
- <h4>
- BERTHA
- </h4>
- <p>
- How very unpleasant! I wonder if I’m wise to marry into the family?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Shaking hands merrily with Mrs. DeMullin and Janet. Then goes off r.,
- laughing merrily.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MONTY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sardonically)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I wonder <i>(shakes hands with Mrs. De Mullin and Janet)</i>. Will you
- give me a kiss, old chap?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>To Johnny.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- That’s three times.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Monty nods.</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Monty follows Bertha off r. A long pause. Mrs. De Mullin looks fixedly
- at Janet. Janet looks at the ground.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(slowly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Mr. Montague Bulstead seems unusually fond of children, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Does he, mother?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>She does not look up.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Johnny is rather old to be kissed by strangers.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I supposed he kissed him because he was brave about being stung.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- He seems to have kissed him before. Twice.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I dare say. I didn’t notice.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Johnny did, apparently.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, it doesn’t matter anyway, does it? <i>(Looks up defiantly. Meets her
- mother’s eyes full on her)</i> Why do you look at me like that, mother?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Send Johnny away for a little, Janet. I want to speak to you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’d rather not, mother. He might hurt himself again.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- He will be quite safe. Run away, Johnny. But don’t go too far.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- All right, grandmother.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Johnny trots off into the wood. Pause.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(defiantly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, mother?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, why did you never tell us you had met Mr. Bulstead before?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- When?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Any time during the last three days, when we were speaking of his
- engagement.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’d forgotten all about it, mother.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Indeed? And why didn’t you tell us eight years ago, when you met him at
- Weymouth, when you were still “Miss De Mullin”?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mother, don’t badger me like this. If you want to ask me anything ask it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, Mr. Bulstead is Johnny’s father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mr. Bulstead? Absurd!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Then why did you pretend not to have met him? Why did you conceal the fact
- of your meeting him from us eight years ago? And why has he concealed the
- fact from Bertha and the Bulsteads?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Pause.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(resignedly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Very well, mother, if you’re determined to know you must know. Yes, he’s
- Johnny’s father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(irritably)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, mother, if you didn’t want to know you shouldn’t have asked. I told
- you not to worry me. <i>(Mrs. De Mullin begins to cry. Remorsefully,)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- There, there, mother! Don’t cry. I’m sorry I was cross to you. Don’t let’s
- talk any more about it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(snuffling)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No, Janet, we <i>must</i> talk about it. There’s no use trying to hide
- things any longer. You must tell me the truth.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Much better not, mother. It won’t give you any pleasure to hear.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Still, I’d rather know, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shrugs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- As you please. What do you want me to tell you? Mrs. De Mullin
- </p>
- <p>
- Everything. How did you come to be at Weymouth? I don’t remember your
- staying at Weymouth eight years ago.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I wasn’t staying there. But Monty was.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shocked)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Monty!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mr. Bulstead. Oh, what <i>does</i> it matter now?
- </p>
- <p>
- He’d had typhoid and was there to recruit. I’d ridden over on my
- bicycle...
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(lamentably)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Bicycle! I always said it was all through bicycling.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(another shrug)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- He ran into me, or I ran into him. I was rather shaken, and he asked me to
- come in and rest. It happened close to the house where he was lodging.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You went in! To his lodgings! A man you had never met before!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear mother, when you have been thrown off a bicycle, ordinary
- conventions cease to apply. Besides, as a matter of fact, we <i>had</i>
- met once before—the day before, in fact.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Where?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Here. By this very stile. Monty was riding past and he asked me the way to
- somewhere—Thoresby, I think. I was standing by the stile. Next day I
- happened to ride into Weymouth. We collided—and the rest you know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sternly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Were those the <i>only</i> times you met him, Janet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course not, mother. After the Weymouth collision we met constantly,
- nearly every day. We used to meet out riding and I had tea with him lots
- of times in his rooms.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(horrified)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- How long did this go on?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- More than a month—till he left Weymouth, in fact. Now, mother, is
- that all you want to know? Because if so we’ll drop the subject.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, Janet, what <i>will</i> your father say!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Father? He won’t know.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Won’t know? But I must tell him.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Good heavens, why?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- In order that Mr. Bulstead may marry you, of course. Your father will
- insist on his marrying you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- If father attempts to do that, mother, I shall deny the whole story. And
- Monty will back me up.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- He would never be so wicked.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- He would have to if I ask him. It’s the least he could do.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Johnny is there to prove it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- There’s nothing to prove that Monty is Johnny’s father. Nothing whatever.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- But, Janet, <i>why</i> won’t you marry him?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(impatiently)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- My dear mother, because I don’t want to, of course.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You don’t <i>want</i> to?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Great heavens, no. Why should I? Monty Bulstead isn’t at all the sort of
- man I should care to <i>marry</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why not?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Frankly, mother, because he’s not interesting enough. Monty’s a very nice
- fellow and I like him very much, but I don’t want to pass the remainder of
- my life with him. If I’m to marry anybody—and I don’t think I shall—it
- will have to be a rather more remarkable person than Monty Bulstead.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yet you <i>did</i> love him, Janet. You must have loved him... then.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh yes. Then. But that was ages ago, before Johnny was born. After that I
- didn’t care for anybody any more except Johnny.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- But, Janet, you <i>ought</i> to marry him, for Johnny’s sake.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Too late, mother. That should have been eight years ago to be any use.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Better too late than not at all.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Better not at all than too late.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- He seduced you, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(thoughtfully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Did he? I was twenty-seven. He was twenty. If either of us was to blame,
- wasn’t it I?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, you’re trying to screen him.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Dearest mother, you talk like a sentimental novel.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(indignantly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- And he’s to be allowed to marry Bertha Aldenham, just as if this had never
- happened?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why not? It’s not <i>her</i> fault, is it? And girls find it difficult
- enough to get married nowadays, goodness knows.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Still, she <i>ought</i> to be told, Janet. I think <i>she must</i> be
- told.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear mother, if <i>she</i> knows everybody will know, and the scandal
- will make all the dead and gone De Mullins turn in their graves. As for
- father it would simply kill him out of hand.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sadly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Poor father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(briskly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- So, on the whole, I don’t think we’ll tell any one. Come, mother, it’s
- time we started. <i>(More kindly)</i> Poor mother. Don’t fret. Perhaps
- Hester will have some news to cheer you when we get home.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hester?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(rallying her)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- An engagement, mother. Hester’s engagement. Hester and Mr. Brown have been
- decorating the church for the last <i>four</i> hours. What an opportunity
- for a declaration! Or don’t people propose in church?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, how can you laugh after what has happened?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Laugh? Of course I can laugh. What else is there to do? Let’s go home.
- Johnny! Johnny! <i>(calls)</i>.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>By this time twilight is falling. A full moon has begun to risey
- lighting uf the scene.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(off r.)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes, Mummie.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Come along, dear. Mother’s going to start. Johnny <i>(off r.)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- All right, Mummie. <i>(entering r.)</i> Oh, Mummie, you’ve not seen my
- rabbits yet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. It’s too dark to-night. Mother must come and see them another time.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- You won’t forget, will you, Mummie? <i>(looking at Mrs. De Mullin)</i>
- Grandmother, you’ve been crying. Is that because I stung myself with a
- nettle?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Little egoist! Of course it is. Give your grandmother a kiss and we’ll all
- walk home together.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Mrs. De Mullin stoop and kisses Johnny passionately. They go off
- through the gate and the curtain falls.</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- <br /><br />
- </p>
- <hr />
- <p>
- <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 4em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
- <h2>
- ACT III
- </h2>
- <p>
- Five days have passed since Act II
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>Scene:</i> As in Act I
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>Time:</i> Late afternoon
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>When the curtain rises Mrs. Clouston, Mrs. De Mullin, and Janet are on
- the stage. The nervous tension of the last few days has clearly told on
- Janet, who looks feverish and irritable.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(speaking off into the hall on the right)</i> Good-bye. Good-bye.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(who is standing about c., scornfully)</i> Good-bye! Good-bye!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shocked)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(fiercely)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- How many times a week does that Bulstead woman think it necessary to call
- on us?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sitting)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- She doesn’t call very often.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- She’s been three times this week.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(closing door r.)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Naturally she wants to hear how your father is, dear.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(irritably)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- My dear mother, what <i>can</i> it matter to Mrs. Bulstead whether father
- lives or dies?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(exasperated)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, mother, do you seriously believe she cares? Or Miss Deanes? Or Miss
- Rolt? Or any of these people? They only call because they’ve nothing
- better to do. It’s sheer mental vacuity on their part. Besides, father’s
- perfectly well now. They know that. But they go on <i>calling, calling!</i>
- I wonder Miss Deanes doesn’t bring her cockatoo to inquire.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Tramps to and fro impatiently.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Really, Janet, I can’t think what’s the matter with you. Do sit down and
- try and exercise some selfcontrol.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’ve no self-control where these Brendon people are concerned. They get on
- my nerves, every one of them.... Where’s Johnny?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- In the garden, I think,
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Sensible boy! He’s had enough of visitors for one day, I’ll be bound. I’ll
- go out and join him.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Goes out angrily.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- I can’t think what’s come to Janet the last day or two. Her temper gets
- worse and worse.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Perhaps it’s only the hot weather. No De Mullin—-
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nonsense, Jane, don’t be foolish. We can’t have <i>Janet</i> giving way to
- that sort of thing at her age.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’m afraid she is rather irritable just now. She flew out quite savagely
- at Hester to-day just after luncheon.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why was that?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Because of something she had been teaching Johnny. The Athanasian Creed I
- think it was. Yes, it must have been that because Johnny asked Janet what
- was meant by three Incomprehensibles. Janet asked him where he had heard
- all that and Johnny said Aunt Hester had taught it to him. Janet was very
- angry and forbade Hester ever to teach him anything again. Hester was
- quite hurt about it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Naturally. Still, I do think Hester might have chosen something else to
- teach him.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- That was what Janet said.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- But that’s no reason why she shouldn’t behave herself when visitors are
- here. She was quite rude to Mrs. Bulstead. What they think of her in
- London when she goes on like this I can’t imagine.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Perhaps she isn’t like this in London.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Of course she is, Jane. Worse. Here she has the restraining influences of
- home life. Whereas in London, living alone as she does...
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She has Johnny.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- She has Johnny, of course. But that’s not enough. She ought to have a
- husband to look after her.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sighs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Seats herself slowly beside her sister.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Where’s Hester?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- At church, I expect.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Church! Why the girl’s always at church.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- It’s a Wednesday. And it does no harm, I think.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Let us hope not, Jane.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>De Mullin enters by the door on the left. He has evidently got over
- his recent attack and looks comparatively hale and vigorous.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Have you had your nap, Hugo?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. The sunset woke me, I suppose. It was shining full on my face.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- What a pity it woke you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- It didn’t matter. I’ve slept enough... <i>(wanders towards sofa, c.)</i>.
- Where’s Johnny?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- In the garden, I think, with Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(wanders to window, c., and looks out)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes. There he is. He’s playing hide and seek with Ellen.... Now she’s
- caught him. No, he’s got away. Bravo, Johnny! <i>(Stands watching intently
- for a while. Then turns and comes down c.)</i> What a fine little fellow
- it is! A true De Mullin!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Do you think so, Hugo?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Every inch of him! <i>(pause, sits c., half to himself)</i> If only Janet
- had been married!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sighs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(musing)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I wonder who the father really was. <i>(looking up)</i> She has never told
- you, Jane, I suppose?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(steadily, without looking up)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No, Hugo.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- And never will. Nobody was ever so obstinate as Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nods sadly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- JANET always had plenty of will.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Far too much! [<i>pause.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You’ll quite miss Johnny when he goes away from us, Won’t you, Hugo.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. I never thought I could grow so fond of a child. The house will seem
- empty without him.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I shall miss him too.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- We shall all miss him. <i>(pause, thoughtfully)</i> I wonder if Janet
- would leave him with us when she goes back to London?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Leave him with us? Altogether, you mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’m afraid not, Hugo. In fact, I’m quite sure she would not. She’s so fond
- of Johnny.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I suppose she wouldn’t <i>(pause)</i>. I was greatly shocked at what you
- told me about her the other day, Harriet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- About her keeping a shop, you mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. And going into partnership with a Miss Higgs or Hicks. It all sounds
- most discreditable.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Deplorable.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(meekly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- She had to do something to keep herself, Hugo.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- No doubt. Still, it can’t be considered a proper sort of position for my
- daughter. I think she must give it up at once.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- She would only have to take to something else.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Not necessarily. She might come back here to live with us... with Johnny,
- of course.
- </p>
- <p>
- Mrs. De. Mullin <i>(astonished)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>Live</i> with us?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why not, Jane?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, of course if <i>you</i> think so, Hugo.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Are you sure you will like to have Janet living at home again, Hugo?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I think it might be the best arrangement. And I shall like to have Johnny
- here. He’s our only descendant, Harriet, the last of the De Mullins. If
- you or Jane had had a son it would be different.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sighs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- As it is I don’t see how we can do anything-better than have them both
- down here—as Jane doesn’t think Janet would part with Johnny. It
- would be better for Janet too. It would take her away from her present
- unsatisfactory surroundings. It would give her a position and independence—everything
- she now lacks.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I should have thought she was <i>independent</i> now,
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(irritably)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- My dear Jane, how can a woman possibly be independent whose income comes
- out of selling hats? The only form of independence that is possible or
- desirable for a woman is that she shall be dependent upon her husband or,
- if she is unmarried, on her nearest male relative. I am sure <i>you</i>
- agree with me, Harriet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Quite, Hugo.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very well. I will speak to her about it at once.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nervously)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I hardly think I would say anything about it to-day, Hugo.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why not, Jane?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, she seems nervous and irritable to-day. I think I should put it off
- for a day or two.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(testily)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- My dear Jane, you are always procrastinating. If such an arrangement is to
- be made the sooner it is made the better. <i>(Goes to window, c., calls)</i>
- Janet my dear. Janet.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Pause. Then Janet appears at window, c.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Did you call me, father?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Come to me for a moment. I want to speak to you. <i>(De Mullin
- wanders undecidedly to the fireplace. A moment later Janet enters from the
- garden.)</i> Is Johnny with you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No. He’s having tea with Ellen. I said he might.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Pause. Janet comes down.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, your mother and I have been talking over your future.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Have you, father?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>With a quick glance at her mother. Mrs. De Mullin, however, makes no
- sign.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. We have come to the conclusion that it would be better for you to
- come back here to live.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Janet faces round towards her father.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- But what would become of the business?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You will have to give up the business, of course. So much the better. You
- never ought to have gone into it. It was not at all a suitable occupation
- for you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- But I like it, father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>Like</i> it! A De Mullin <i>like</i> keeping a shop! Impossible.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(firmly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Yes, Aunt Harriet, I like it. And I’m proud of it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sharply)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Nonsense, Janet. Nobody can possibly be proud of keeping a shop.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>I</i> am. I made it, you see. It’s my child, like Johnny.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(amazed)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- JANET! Do you understand what you’re doing? I offer you the chance of
- returning to Brendon to live as my daughter.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(indifferently)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I quite understand, father. And I’m much obliged for the offer. Only I
- decline it. That’s all.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Really!
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(with dignity)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- The question is, are you to be allowed to decline it, in Johnny’s
- interests if not your own?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Johnny’s?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Johnny’s. As long as he was a child it made little difference where
- he was brought up. Relatively little that is. Now he is getting to an age
- when early associations are all-important. Living here at Brendon in the
- home of his ancestors he will grow up worthy of the race from which he is
- descended. He will be a true De Mullin.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quietly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Perhaps I don’t want him to be a true De Mullin, father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- What do you mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear father, you’re infatuated about your De Mullins. Who are the De
- Mullins, after all? Mere country squires who lived on here down at Brendon
- generation after generation. What have they ever done that I should want
- Johnny to be like them? Nothing. There’s not one of them who has ever
- distinguished himself in the smallest degree or made his name known
- outside his native village. The De Mullins are, and have always been,
- nobodies. Look at their portraits. Is there a single one of them that is
- worth a second glance? Why they never even had the brains to be painted by
- a decent artist. With the result that they aren’t worth the canvas they’re
- painted on. Or is it board? I’d make a bonfire of them if they were mine.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(impatiently)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I would. You seem to think there’s some peculiar virtue about always
- living in the same place. I believe in people uprooting themselves and
- doing something with their lives. What was the good of the De Mullins
- going on living down here century after century, always a little poorer
- and a little poorer, selling a farm here, mortgaging another there,
- instead of going out into the world to seek their fortunes? We’ve stayed
- too long in one place, we De Mullins. We shall never be worth anything
- sleeping away our lives down at Brendon.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(sharply)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet, you are talking foolishly. What you say only makes it clearer to me
- that you cannot be allowed to live by yourself in London any longer. Such
- a life is demoralizing to you. You must come back to Brendon.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I shall not come back to Brendon, father. On that I am quite determined.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(with dignity)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- My dear, this is not a matter that rests with you. My mind is made up.
- Hitherto I have only asked you to return. Do not force me to command you.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(fiercely)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Command? By what right do you command?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- By the right of a father, Janet. By that right I insist on your obedience.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(losing her temper)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Obedience! Obedience! I owe no one obedience. I am of full age and can
- order my life as I please. Is a woman never to be considered old enough to
- manage her own affairs? Is she to go down to her grave everlastingly under
- tutelage? Is she always to be obeying a father when she’s not obeying a
- husband? Well, I, for one, will not submit to such nonsense. I’m sick of
- this everlasting <i>obedience</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(fiercely)</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET...!
- </h4>
- <p>
- [<i>Door opens l. Ellen enters with the lamp. There is a considerable
- pause, during which Ellen puts down the lamp, turns it up, pulls down the
- blind and begins to draw the curtains. In the middle of the last process
- De Mullin intervenes.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- (irritably)
- </p>
- <p>
- You can leave the curtains, Ellen.
- </p>
- <h4>
- ELLEN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very well, sir.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Exit Ellen l. with maddening deliberation. Pause.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Father, I’m sorry if what I said vexed you. Perhaps I spoke too strongly.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(with great dignity)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Very well, Janet. You will remain with us.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, father, that’s not possible. For Johnny’s sake, as well as my own, it
- would be madness for us to live down here.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- For Johnny’s sake?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, Johnny’s. In London we’re not known, he and I. There he’s simply
- Johnny Seagrave, the son of a respectable widow who keeps a hat-shop. Here
- he is the son of Janet De Mullin who ran away from home one night eight
- years ago and whose name was never mentioned again by her parents until
- one fine day she turned up with an eight-year-old boy and said she was
- married. How long would they take to see through <i>that</i> story down
- here, do you think?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(tartly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Whose fault is that?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Never mind whose fault it is, Aunt Harriet. The question is, will they see
- through it or will they not? Of course, they <i>know</i> nothing so far,
- but I’ve no doubt they suspect. What else have people to do down here but
- suspect other people? Miss Deanes murmurs her doubts to Mrs. Bulstead and
- Mrs. Bulstead shakes her head to Miss Deanes. Mrs. Bulstead! What right
- has <i>she</i> to look down that huge nose of hers at <i>me!</i> She’s had
- <i>ten</i> children!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- JANET! She’s married.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- To Mr. Bulstead! That vulgar animal! You don’t ask me to consider that a
- <i>merit</i>, do you? No, Mrs. Bulstead shan’t have the chance of sneering
- at Johnny if <i>I</i> can help it. Or at me either.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet, listen to me. You don’t understand how your father feels about this
- or how much it means to him. Johnny is his only grandchild—our only
- descendant. He would adopt him and call him De Mullin, and then the name
- would not die out. You know how much your father thinks of that and how
- sorry he has always been that I never had a son.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(more gently)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I know, mother. But when Hester marries...
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER?
- </h4>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(turning angrily to his wife)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- But whom is Hester going to marry? Is she going to marry? I have heard
- nothing about this. What’s this, Jane? Has something been kept from me?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, no, Hugo. Nothing has been kept from you. It’s only some fancy of
- Janet’s. She thinks Mr. Brown is going to propose to Hester. There’s
- nothing in it, really.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mr. Brown! Impossible!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Quite impossible!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(calmly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Why impossible, father?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- He would never dare to do such a thing. <i>Mr. Brown</i> to have the
- audacity to propose to <i>my</i> daughter!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quietly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Why not, father?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(bubbling with rage)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Because he is not of a suitable position. Because the <i>De Mullins</i>
- cannot be expected to marry people of <i>that</i> class. Because...
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(shrugs)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I dare say Mr. Brown won’t think of all that. Anyhow, I hope he won’t. I
- hope he’ll propose to Hester and she’ll accept him and then when they’ve a
- whole herd of little Browns you can select one of them and make a De
- Mullin of him, poor little wretch.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[At this moment Hester enters from the garden. An uncomfortable silence
- falls</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hush, hush, Janet. Here is Hester. Is that you, Hester? Have you come from
- church?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, mother.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[She comes down, her face looking pale and drawn, and stands by her
- mother.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You’re very late, dear.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- A little, I stayed on after service was over.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- How very eccentric of you!
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quietly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I suppose saying one’s prayers does seem eccentric to you, Aunt Harriet?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear Hester, considering you’d only just finished <i>one</i> service...
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(who has not noticed the look on her sister’s face)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Well, Aunt Harriet, who was right?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hush, Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(gaily)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- My dear mother, what on earth is there to “hush” about? And what on earth
- is there to keep Hester in church half an hour after service is over, if
- it’s not what I told you?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- What do you mean?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nothing, dear. Come and give me a kiss.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Pulling her towards her.</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- HESTER {repulsing her roughly)
- </p>
- <p>
- I won’t. Leave me alone, Janet. What has she been saying about me, mother?
- I insist on knowing.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Nothing, dear. Only some nonsense about you and Mr. Brown. Janet is always
- talking nonsense.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, Hester. About you and Mr. Brown. <i>Your</i> Mr. Brown. Confess he
- has asked you to marry him as I said?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(slowly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Mr. Brown is engaged to be married to Agatha Bulstead. He told me so this
- evening after service.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- He told you!
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. He asked me to congratulate him.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- The little wretch!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- To Agatha Bulstead? That’s the plain one, isn’t it?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- The third one. Yes.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- The plain one! Good heavens, it oughtn’t to be allowed. The children will
- be little monsters.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- So that’s why you were so long at church?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. I was praying that they might be happy.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Poor Hester!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Are you disappointed, dear?
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’d rather not talk about it if you don’t mind, mother.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Your father would never have given his consent.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- So Mr. Brown said.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- The little <i>worm</i>.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- My dear!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, mother, isn’t it too contemptible?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’m bound to say Mr. Brown seems to have behaved in a very fitting manner.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- You think so, father?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Certainly. He saw what my objections would be and recognized that they
- were reasonable. Nothing could be more proper.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, father. I don’t know what you do want. Ten minutes ago you were
- supposed to be wanting a grandson to adopt. Here’s Hester going the right
- way to provide one, and you don’t like that either.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- What is all this about, father? What have you all been discussing while
- I’ve been out?
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- It was nothing about you, Hester.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’m not sure of that, mother. Anyhow I should like to hear what it was.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hester, that is not at all a proper tone to use in speaking to your
- mother.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(fiercely)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Please don’t interfere, Aunt Harriet. I suppose I can be trusted to speak
- to my mother properly by this time.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- You certainly ought to, my dear. You are quite old enough.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Very well then. Perhaps you will be good enough not to dictate to me in
- future. What was it you were discussing, father?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I’ll tell you, Hester. Father wanted to adopt Johnny. He wanted me to come
- down here to live altogether.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Indeed? Well, father, understand, please, that if Janet comes down here to
- live <i>I go!</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hester!
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- I will not live in the same house with Janet. Nothing shall induce me. I
- would rather beg my bread.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- That settles it then. Thanks, Hester. I’m glad you had the pluck to say
- that. You are right. Quite right.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- I can do without <i>your</i> approval, Janet.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(recklessly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Of course you can. But you can have it all the same. You never wanted me
- down here. You always disapproved of my being sent for. I ought never to
- have come. I wish I hadn’t come. My coming has only done harm to Hester,
- as she knew it would.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- How harm?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Mr. Brown would have asked Hester to marry him if I hadn’t come. He meant
- to; I’m sure of it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- But he said...
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I know. But that was only an excuse. Young men aren’t so considerate of
- their future fathers-inlaw as all that nowadays. No. Mr. Brown heard some
- story about me from Miss Deanes. Or perhaps the Vicar put him on his
- guard. Isn’t it so, Hester?
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Hester nods.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- But as your father would never have consented, dear...
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(slowly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Still, I’d rather he had asked me, mother.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Quite right, Hester! I’m glad you’ve got some wholesome feminine vanity
- left in your composition. And you’d have said “yes,” like a sensible
- woman.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, you’re always sneering!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. But I’m <i>going</i>, Hester, <i>going! That’s</i> great thing! Keep
- your eyes fixed steadily on that and you’ll be able to bear anything else.
- That reminds me. <i>(Goes to door, l., and calls loudly into the hall.)</i>
- Johnny! Johnny!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Really, Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh, I forgot. It’s not genteel to call into the passage, is it? I ought to
- have rung. I apologise, Aunt Harriet. <i>(Calls again)</i> Johnny!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Why are you calling Johnny?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- To tell him to put on his hat and coat, mother dear. I’m going to the
- station.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- You’re going to-night?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, father, to-night. I’ve done harm enough down here. I’m going away.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(entering l.)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Do you want me, Mummie?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes. Run and put on your things and say goodbye to Cook and Ellen and tell
- Robert to put in the pony. Mother’s going back to London.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- Are we going now, Mummie?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(nods)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- As fast as the train can carry us. And tell Ellen to lock my trunk for me
- and give you the key. Run along.
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>[Exit Johnny, l.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Lock your trunk! But you’ve not <i>packed?</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Oh yes, I have. Everything’s packed, down to my last shoelace. I don’t
- know how often I haven’t packed and unpacked during the last five days.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(astonished and hurt)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- You meant to leave us then, Janet? You’ve been <i>wanting</i> to leave us
- all the time?
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Yes, mother. I’ve been wanting to leave you. I can’t stay here any longer.
- Brendon stifles me. It has too many ghosts. I suppose it’s your ridiculous
- De Mullins.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- I know, father. That’s blasphemy, isn’t it? But I can’t help it. I must
- go. I’ve been meaning to tell you every day for the last four days, but
- somehow I always put it off.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Understand me, Janet. If you leave this house to-night you leave it for
- ever.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(cheerfully)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- All right, father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(growing angrier)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Understand, too, that if you leave it you are never to hold any
- communication either with me or with any one in it henceforward. You are
- cut off from the family. I will never see you or recognize you in any way,
- or speak to you again as long as I live.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(astonished)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- My dear father, why are you so angry? Is there anything so dreadful in my
- wanting to live in London instead of in the country?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(getting more and more excited)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Why am I angry! Why am I...!
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Sh! Hugo! You mustn’t excite yourself. You know the doctor said...
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Be quiet, Jane! <i>(turning furiously to Janet)</i> Why am I angry! You
- disgrace the family. You have a child, that poor fatherless boy....
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(quietly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Oh come, I could have got along quite well without a father if it comes to
- that. And so could Hester.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, mother, what has father ever done for Hester or me except try and
- prevent us from doing something we wanted to do? Hester wanted to marry
- Mr. Brown. Father wouldn’t have allowed her. He’s not genteel enough to
- marry a De Mullin. I want to go back to my shop. Father objects to that.
- That’s not genteel enough for a De Mullin either. Well, hang all the De
- Mullins, say I.
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(furious)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I forbid you to speak of your family in that way-of <i>my</i> family! I
- forbid it! It is an outrage. Your ancestors were honourable men and pure
- women. They did their duty in the position in which they were born, and
- handed on their name untarnished to their children. Hitherto our honour
- has been unsullied. You have sullied it. You have brought shame upon your
- parents and shame upon your son, and that shame you can never wipe out. If
- you had in you a spark of human feeling, if you were not worthless and
- heartless you would blush to look me in the face or your child in the
- face. But you are utterly hardened. I ought never to have offered to
- receive you back into this house. I ought never to have consented to see
- you again. I was wrong. I regret it. You are unfit for the society of
- decent people. Go back to London. Take up the wretched trade you practise
- there. It is what you are fit for.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- That’s exactly what I think, father. As we agree about it why make such a
- fuss?
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(furious)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Janet....
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Father, don’t argue with her. It’s no use. <i>(solemnly)</i> Leave her to
- God.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Hester, Hester, don’t deceive yourself. In your heart you envy me my baby,
- and you know it.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(indignant)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- I do not.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- You do. Time is running on with you, my dear. You’re twenty-eight. Just
- the age that I was when I met my lover. Yes, my lover. In a few years you
- will be too old for love, too old to have children. So soon it passeth
- away and we are gone. Your best years are slipping by and you are growing
- faded and cross and peevish. Already the lines are hardening about your
- mouth and the hollows coming under your eyes. You will be an old woman
- before your time unless you marry and have children. And what will you do
- then? Keep a lap-dog, I suppose, or sit up at night with a sick cockatoo
- like Miss Deanes. Miss Deanes! Even she has a heart somewhere about her.
- Do you imagine she wouldn’t rather give it to her babies than snivel over
- <i>poultry?</i> No, Hester, make good use of your youth, my dear. It won’t
- last always. And once gone it is gone for ever. <i>(Hester bursts into
- tears.)</i> There, there, Hester! I’m sorry. I oughtn’t to have spoken
- like that. It wasn’t kind. Forgive me. <i>(Hester weep more and more
- violently.)</i> Hester, don’t cry like that. I can’t bear to hear you. I
- was angry and said more than I should. I didn’t mean to vex you. Come,
- dear, you mustn’t give way like that or you’ll make yourself ill. Dry your
- eyes and let me see you smile. <i>(Caressing her. Hester, who has begun by
- resisting her feebly, gradually allows herself to be soothed.)</i> That’s
- better! My dear, what a sight you’ve made of yourself! But all women are
- hideous when they’ve been crying. It makes their noses red and that’s
- dreadfully unbecoming. <i>(Hester sobs out a laugh)</i>. No. You mustn’t
- begin to cry again or I shall scold you. I shall, really.
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(half laughing, half crying hysterically)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- You seem to think every woman ought to behave as shamefully as you did.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(grimly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- No, Hester. I don’t think that. To do as I did needs pluck and brains—and
- five hundred pounds. Everything most women haven’t got, poor things. So
- they must marry or remain childless. You must marry—the next curate.
- I suppose the Bulsteads will buy Mr. Brown a living as he’s marrying the
- plainest of the daughters. It’s the least they can do. But that’s no
- reason why <i>I</i> should marry unless I choose.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. CLOUSTON
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, I’ve never heard of anything so disgraceful. I thought Janet at
- least had the grace to be ashamed of what she did!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(genuinely astonished)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Ashamed? Ashamed of wanting to have a child? What on earth were women
- created for, Aunt Harriet, if not to have children?
- </p>
- <p>
- MRS. CLOUSTON To <i>marry</i> and have children.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(with relentless logic)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- My dear Aunt Harriet, women had children thousands of years before
- marriage was invented. I dare say they will go on doing so thousands of
- years after it has ceased to exist.
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- Well, mother, that’s how I feel. And I believe it’s how all wholesome
- women feel if they would only acknowledge it. I <i>wanted</i> to have a
- child. I always did from the time when I got too old to play with dolls.
- Not an adopted child or a child of some one else’s, but a baby of my very
- own. Of course I wanted to marry. That’s the ordinary way a woman wants to
- be a mother nowadays, I suppose. But time went on and nobody came forward,
- and I saw myself getting old and my chance slipping away. Then I met-never
- mind. And I fell in love with him. Or perhaps I only fell in love with
- love. I don’t know. It was so splendid to find some one at last who really
- cared for me as women should be cared for! Not to talk to because I was
- clever or to play tennis with because I was strong, but to kiss me and to
- make love to me! Yes! To make love to me!
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(solemnly)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Listen to me, my girl. You say that now, and I dare say you believe it.
- But when you are older, when Johnny is grown up, you will bitterly repent
- having brought into the world a child who can call no man father.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(passionately)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- Never! Never! That I’m sure of. Whatever happens, even if Johnny should
- come to hate me for what I did, I shall always be glad to have been his
- mother. At least I shall have lived. These poor women who go through life
- listless and dull, who have never felt the joys and the pains a mother
- feels, how they would envy me if they knew! If they knew! To know that a
- child is your very own, is a part of you. That you have faced sickness and
- pain and death itself for it. That it is yours and nothing can take it
- from you because no one can understand its wants as you do. To feel it’s
- soft breath on your cheek, to soothe it when it is fretful and still it
- when it cries, that is motherhood and that is glorious!
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Johnny runs in by the door on the left. He is obviously in the highest
- spirits at the thought of going home.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- JOHNNY
- </h4>
- <p>
- The trap is round, Mummie, and the luggage is in.
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- That’s right. Good-bye, father. <i>(He does not move)</i> Say good-bye to
- your grandfather, Johnny. You won’t see him again.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>De Mullin kisses Johnny.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- MRS. DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- Janet!
- </p>
- <h4>
- JANET
- </h4>
- <p>
- No, mother. It’s best not. <i>(Kisses her)</i> It would only be painful
- for father. Good-bye, Aunt Harriet. Good-bye, Hester.
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Looks at Hester doubtfully. Hester rises, goes to her slowly and
- kisses her.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- HESTER
- </h4>
- <p>
- Good-bye. .
- </p>
- <p>
- [<i>Exeunt Johnny and Janet by the door the right.</i>
- </p>
- <h4>
- DE MULLIN
- </h4>
- <p>
- <i>(his grey head bowed on his chest as Mrs De Mullin timidly lays her
- hand on his shoulder)</i>
- </p>
- <p>
- The last of the De Mullins! The last of the De Mullins!
- </p>
- <p>
- <i>(The curtain falls)</i>
- </p>
- <div style="height: 6em;">
- <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
- </div>
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-<pre>
-
-
-
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