Act I

Of course.

You will be dignified about it all, won’t you, darling?

I’m much more dignified on the stage than in the country⁠—it’s my milieu. I’ve tried terribly hard to be “landed gentry,” but without any real success. I long for excitement and glamour. Think of the thrill of a first night; all those ardent playgoers willing one to succeed; the critics all leaning forward with glowing faces, receptive and exultant⁠—emitting queer little inarticulate noises as some witty line tickles their fancy. The satisfied grunt of the Daily MailDaily Mail, the abandoned gurgle of the Sunday TimesSunday Times, and the shrill, enthusiastic scream of the Daily ExpressDaily Express! I can distinguish them all⁠—

Have you got a play?

I think I shall revive Love’s WhirlwindLove’s Whirlwind.

Oh, Mother!

Father will be furious.

I can’t help that.