Beatrice
On what are you to be congratulated?
Robert
On a victory, of course. [Laying his hand lightly on Richard's shoulder.] The descendant of Archibald Hamilton Rowan has come home.
Richard
I am not a descendant of Hamilton Rowan.
Robert
What matter?
[Bertha comes in from the right with a bowl of roses.]
Beatrice
Has Mr. Rowan . . .?
Robert
[Turning towards Bertha.] Richard is coming tonight to the vicechancellor's dinner. The fatted calf will be eaten: roast, I hope. And next session will see the descendant of a namesake of etcetera, etcetera in a chair of the university. [He offers his hand.] Good afternoon, Richard. We shall meet tonight.
Richard
[Touches his hand.] At Philippi.
Beatrice
[Shakes hands also.] Accept my best wishes, Mr Rowan.
Richard
Thanks. But do not believe him.
Robert
[Vivaciously.] Believe me, believe me. [To Bertha.] Good afternoon, Mrs Rowan.
