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22
[Act I

Bertha

I'm sorry. If you had written or sent over word bythe girl this morning . . .

Beatrice

[Laughs nervously.] I arrived only an hour and a half ago. I thought of sending a telegram but it seemed too tragic.

Bertha

Ah? Only now you arrived?

Robert

[Extending his arms, blandly.] I retire from public and private life. Her first cousin and a journalist, I know nothing of her movements.

Beatrice

[Not directly to him.] My movements are not very interesting.

Robert

[In the same tone.] A lady's movements are always interesting.

Bertha

But sit down, won't you? You must be very tired.

Beatrice

[Quickly.] No, not at all. I just came for Archie's lesson.

Bertha

I wouldn't hear of such a thing. Miss Justice, after your long journey.

Archie

[Suddenly to Beatrice.] And, besides, you didn't bring the music.