Why Marry? Part 35

ERNEST

Not in the least. I've been there. [_JOHN comes out to breakfast. He is scowling._] Good morning; could you spare me five minutes?

JOHN

[_ringing bell_]

Haven't had breakfast yet.

ERNEST

After breakfast?

JOHN

I've an appointment with young Baker.

ERNEST

[_smiles_]

I'll wait my turn.

JOHN

Going to be pretty busy to-day--you, too, I suppose, if you're sailing to-morrow.

ERNEST

I can postpone sailing. This is more important.

JOHN

I should hate to see _anything_ interfere with your career.

[_LUCY also arrives for breakfast. She "always pours her husband's coffee."_

ERNEST

I appreciate your interest, but I'll look out for my "career." [_To LUCY._] Could you tell me when your sister will be down?

JOHN

[_overriding LUCY_]

My sister is ill and won't be down at all ... until _after_ you _leave_.

[_LUCY pretends not to hear. THEODORE walks away._

ERNEST

[_aroused, but calm_]

I don't believe you quite understand. It is a matter of indifference to me whether we have a talk or not. Entirely out of courtesy to you that I suggest it.

JOHN

Don't inconvenience yourself on my account.

ERNEST

[_shrugs shoulders and turns to THEODORE_]

Wait, I think I'll sit in church till train time.

THEODORE

[_smoothing it over_]

Come along. I'm going to preach about marriage!

[_THEODORE starts off._

ERNEST

[_going, turns to LUCY_]

Thanks for your kindness. Will you ask the valet to pack my things, please? I'll call for them on the way to the station. [_To JOHN._] Do you understand? I have no favors to ask of you. You don't own your sister--she owns herself.

[_The scientist goes to church._

JOHN

[_with a loud laugh, turns to LUCY_]