Robert
[Lightly.] O, never mind. I will wait if he is only gone to the post.
Archie
But mamma is coming. [He glances towards the window.] Here she is!
[Archie runs out by the door on the left. Beatrice walks slowly towards the davenport. Robert remains standing. A short silence. Archie and Bertha come in through the door on the left. Bertha is a young woman of graceful build. She has dark grey eyes, patient in expression, and soft features. Her manner is cordial and self-possessed. She wears a lavender dress and carries her cream gloves knotted round the handle of her sunshade.]
Bertha
[Shaking hands.] Good evening, Miss Justice. We thought you were still down in Youghal.
Beatrice
[Shaking hands.] Good evening, Mrs Rowan.
Bertha
[Bows.] Good evening, Mr Hand.
Robert
[Bowing.] Good evening, signora! Just imagine, I didn't know either she was back till I found her here.
Bertha
[To both.] Did you not come together?
Beatrice
No. I came first. Mr Rowan was going out. He said you would be back any moment.
