BELINDA (jumping up suddenly and kissing DELIA again). I simply
must have another one. And to think that you're never going back to
school any more. (Looking at her fondly) Darling, you _are_ looking
pretty.

DELIA. Am I?

BELINDA. Lovely. (Going back to her seat) And now you're going to
stay with me for just as long as you want a mother. (Anxiously)
Darling, you didn't mind being sent away to school, did you? It
_is_ the usual thing, you know.

DELIA. Silly mother! of course it is.

BELINDA (relieved). I'm so glad you think so too.

DELIA. Have you been very lonely without me?

BELINDA. Very.

DELIA (holding up a finger). The truth, mummy!

BELINDA. I've missed you horribly, Delia. (Primly.) The absence
of female companionship of the requisite--

DELIA. Are you really all alone?

BELINDA (smiling mysteriously). Well, not always, of course.

DELIA (excitedly, at she slips off the table). Mummy, I believe