Hilda
That's quite a new trait in you.
[Hilda sits down and pours out tea for John. He looks at her silently.
Hilda
You've been lunching at Richmond?
John
Yes… Then I went on to Putney.
Hilda
You've been making quite a day of it.
John
[Taking the cup.] I say, old gal – you're not going to make a fool of yourself, are you?
Hilda
[Opening her eyes.] Oh, I hope not. Why?
John
I thought it might have slipped your memory that Basil was married about a year ago.
Hilda
[Freezing.] What on earth d'you mean? [Calling] Mabel.
John
One moment… You can give me a little conversation, can't you?
Hilda
I'm afraid you're going to bore me.
John
[Good-humouredly.] I assure you I'm not… Isn't Basil here rather often?
Hilda
I wonder you haven't learnt to mind your own business, John.
John
Don't you think it's rather rough on that poor little woman in Putney?
Hilda
[With a suspicion of contempt.] I went down to see her. I thought she was vulgar and pretentious. I'm afraid I can't arouse any interest in her.
John
[Gently.] She may be vulgar, but she told me her love was like music in her heart. Don't you think she must have suffered awfully to get hold of a thought like that?
Hilda
[After a pause, changing suddenly both voice and manner.] And d'you think I've not suffered, John? I'm so unhappy.
John
Do you really care for him?
Hilda
[In a low voice hoarse with passion.] No, I don't care for him. I worship the very ground he treads on.
John
[Very gravely.] Then you must do as you think best… You're playing the most dangerous game in the world. You're playing with human hearts… Good-bye.
Hilda
[Taking his hand.] Good-bye, John. You're not angry with me because I was horrid… I'm glad you told me about his wife. Now I shall know what to do.
John
Mabel.
Mabel
[Coming forward.] Yes, we really must be going. I've not seen my precious baby for two hours.
Hilda
[Taking both her hands.] Good-bye, you happy child. You've got a precious baby, and you've got a husband you love. What can you want more?
Mabel
[Flippantly.] I want a motor-car.
Hilda