_Culch._ Quite so. Only, you see, we _used_ to be good friends at
Constance, and--er--until recently--

_Bob_. Used we? Of course, if you say so, it's all right. But what are
you driving at exactly?

_Culch._ All I am driving at is this: Couldn't we two--er--agree to
effect a reconciliation between the two ladies? So much pleasanter
for--er--all parties!

_Bob_. I daresay. But how are you going to set about it? _I_ can't
begin.

_Culch._ Couldn't you induce your sister to lay aside
her--er--prejudice against me? Then _I_ could easily--

_Bob_. Very likely--but I _couldn't_. I never interfere in my sister's
affairs, and, to tell you the honest truth, I don't feel particularly
inclined to make a beginning on your account. [_Strolls away._

_Culch._ (_to himself_). What a surly boor it is! But I don't
care--I'll do him a good turn, in spite of himself! (_Miss T.
returns_.) Do you know, I've just been having a chat with poor young
PRENDERGAST. He seems quite cut up at being forced to side with his
sister. I undertook to--er--intercede for him. Now is it quite
fair, or like your--er--usual good-nature, to visit his sister's
offences--whatever they are--on him? I--I only put it to you.

_Miss T._ Well, to think now! I guess you're about the most unselfish