LADY (turning towards the verandah). Here he is!

(The STRANGER comes in through the verandah, dressed in a way that
makes him look younger than before. He has an air of forced
candour. He seems to recognise the doctor, and shrinks back, but
recovers himself.)

DOCTOR. You're very welcome.

STRANGER. It's kind of you.

DOCTOR. You bring good weather with you. And we need it; for it's
rained for six weeks.

STRANGER. Not for seven? It usually rains for seven if it rains on
St. Swithin's. But that's later on--how foolish of me!

DOCTOR. As you're used to town life I'm afraid you'll find the
country dull.

STRANGER. Oh no. I'm no more at home there than here. Excuse me
asking, but haven't we met before--when we were boys?

DOCTOR. Never.

(The LADY has sat down at the table and is crocheting.)

STRANGER. Are you sure?

DOCTOR. Perfectly. I've followed your literary career from the