Her mother ought to have her with her. Eh! Don't
you think so?
LEVER. [Forcing a smile.] Mrs. Gwyn always seems to me to get on
all right.
COLONEL. [As though making a discovery.] You know, I've found that
when a woman's living alone and unprotected, the very least thing
will set a lot of hags and jackanapes talking. [Hotly.] The more
unprotected and helpless a woman is, the more they revel in it. If
there's anything I hate in this world, it's those wretched creatures
who babble about their neighbours' affairs.
LEVER. I agree with you.
COLONEL. One ought to be very careful not to give them--that is----
[checks himself confused; then hurrying on]--I suppose you and Joy
get on all right?
LEVER. [Coolly.] Pretty well, thanks. I'm not exactly in Joy's
line; have n't seen very much of her, in fact.
[Miss BEECH and JOY have been approaching from the house. But
seeing LEVER, JOY turns abruptly, hesitates a moment, and with
an angry gesture goes away.]
COLONEL [Unconscious.] Wonderfully affectionate little thing! Well,
she'll be going home to-morrow!
MISS BEECH. [Who has been gazing after JOY.] Talkin' business, poor
creatures?
LEVER. Oh, no! If you'll excuse me, I'll wash my hands before tea.
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