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BENHAM. Rich, yes, but what does he do with his money? Does he hunt or shoot? Does he entertain? Has he got a country-house?

ALICE (sticking to it). I’m sure you couldn’t find a nicer gentleman than Sir Roger Tenterden who lives next door, and came to dinner here only last Tuesday with his daughter.

BENHAM. Tenterden? Ah, now that is family, my girl. That’s the best I’ve heard of your Mr.Broxopp as yet. But you mustn’t stand talking here all the morning. Just go down and tell that young woman to wait until I send for her. They’re used to waiting.

ALICE. Yes, Mr.Benham.

[She goes out.

BENHAM (picking up hat delicately and putting it down again). One hat—and what a hat!

(BROXOPP comes in. Very much the BROXOPP that we know, though his hair, moustache, and beard are greying slightly, and his face is more lined. He still wears a broad-tailed coat and a spreading blue tie, though he probably pays more for them nowadays.)

BROXOPP. Well, Benham, what is it?

BENHAM. A gentleman rang up, your Grace—I beg your pardon—“Sir,” I should have said.