FANNY. Didn't it seem a long way? [She laughs up into his face.]
He was so bored. [Vernon laughs.]

THE YOUNGER MISS WETHERELL. I had better tell--[She is going towards
the bell.]

VERNON [he stops her]. Oh, let them alone. Plenty of time for all
that fuss. [He puts them both gently side by side on the settee.]
Sit down and talk. Haven't I been clever? [He puts his arm round
Fanny, laughing.] You thought I had made an ass of myself, didn't
you? Did you get all my letters?

THE YOUNGER MISS WETHERELL. I think so, dear.

FANNY [she is sitting in an easy-chair. Vernon seats himself on the
arm]. Do you know I've never had a love-letter from you?

VERNON. You gave me no time. She met me a month ago, and married me
last week.

FANNY. It was quick work. He came--he saw--I conquered! [Laughs.]

THE ELDER MISS WETHERELL. They say that love at first sight is often
the most lasting.

VERNON [he puts his arm around her]. You are sure you will never
regret having given up the stage? The excitement, the -

FANNY. The excitement! Do you know what an actress's life always