Part 60

LILY.

FARNCOMBE.

LILY.

FARNCOMBE.

LILY.

Isn't there! [Almost nestling up to him.] Ah, you should see me in one of my vile tempers. [Wistfully.] Then-- then you wouldn't--! [Becoming conscious of her proximity to him, she backs away and stands rubbing the palms of her hands together in embarrassment.] Anyhow-- anyhow it isn't my intention to give you a chance of comparing us.

FARNCOMBE.

LILY.

FARNCOMBE.

Fool----!

LILY.

FARNCOMBE.

LILY.

No, but-- without wishing to flatter you-- I don't quite put you on a level with Robbie Kinterton, and Glenroy, and Georgie Fawcus, and-- that crew. [Cheerfully.] And so I mean to take care of you-- to take care of you for your own sake and for your mammy's and daddy's. [She turns from him and fetches his hat and coat and gives them to him. He receives them from her with a dazed look.] Time's up. [After a silence during which neither stirs.] Never mind. You'll survive it. [Another pause.] Come along.

FARNCOMBE.

Lily-- Lily----!

LILY.

Ah, that's not fair!

FARNCOMBE.

Don't-- don't send me away like this!

LILY.

FARNCOMBE.

Say you'll take time to consider.

LILY.

I hate you for it!

FARNCOMBE.

Ask Roper's advice-- your mother's----!

LILY.