Jack. But my dear Lady Bracknell, the matter is entirely in your
own hands. The moment you consent to my marriage with Gwendolen, I
will most gladly allow your nephew to form an alliance with my ward.

Lady Bracknell. [Rising and drawing herself up.] You must be quite
aware that what you propose is out of the question.

Jack. Then a passionate celibacy is all that any of us can look
forward to.

Lady Bracknell. That is not the destiny I propose for Gwendolen.
Algernon, of course, can choose for himself. [Pulls out her watch.]
Come, dear, [Gwendolen rises] we have already missed five, if not
six, trains. To miss any more might expose us to comment on the
platform.

[Enter Dr. Chasuble.]

Chasuble. Everything is quite ready for the christenings.

Lady Bracknell. The christenings, sir! Is not that somewhat
premature?

Chasuble. [Looking rather puzzled, and pointing to Jack and
Algernon.] Both these gentlemen have expressed a desire for
immediate baptism.

Lady Bracknell. At their age? The idea is grotesque and
irreligious! Algernon, I forbid you to be baptized. I will not