It was promised a week
before you came up.
Capt. G. I didn't know--
Mrs. H. It really was.
Capt. G. Anything about it, I mean.
Mrs. H. What has upset you today? All these days? You haven't been near me for
four whole days--nearly one hundred hours. Was it kind of you, Pip? And I've
been looking forward so much to your coming.
Capt. G. Have you?
Mrs. H. You know I have! I've been as foolish as a schoolgirl about it. I made
a little calendar and put it in my card-case, and every time the twelve o"clock
gun went off I scratched out a square and said: "That brings me nearer to Pip.
My Pip!"
Capt. G. (With an uneasy laugh). What will Mackler think if you neglect him so?
Mrs. H. And it hasn't brought you nearer. You seem farther away than ever. Are
you sulking about something? I know your temper.
Capt. G. No.
Mrs. H. Have I grown old in the last few months, then? (Reaches forward to bank
of flowers for menu-card.)
PARTNER ON LEFT. Allow me. (Hands menu-card. Mrs. H. keeps her arm at full
stretch for three seconds.)
Mrs. H. (To partner.) Oh, thanks. I didn't see. (Turns right again.) Is
anything in me changed at all?
Capt. G. For Goodness's sake go on with your dinner! You must eat something.
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