John I suppose mother's upset, isn't she...

John I suppose mother's upset, isn't she?

Colonel A little, I think.

John You think she'll get over it, though, don't you ?

Colonel I expect so. Don't worry.

John It must have been an awful shock for her — for you both.

Colonel My dear boy, this sort of thing's always a shock — it's unavoidable.

John You like Lari, though, don't you, father?

Colonel She seems charming.

John Oh, she is — she's more than that — she's wonderful.

Colonel She's older than I thought.

John Yes, but that doesn't matter really, does it? — I mean if people really care for one another.

Colonel I don't know. It might — later on.

John [Haltingly.] You mean — children?

Colonel Not altogether.

John I don't suppose we shall have any children.

Colonel No — I don't suppose you will.

John But Marion's married, and Hilda will be soon.

Colonel [Gently.] That's not quite the same thing, is it?

John Are you cut up about it?

Colonel What's the use of being cut up, John? When a thing's done, you've got to stand by it.

John Father — I do love her terribly; she's my life's happiness.

Colonel That's all right, then. Run up and look after her — she's probably feeling a little shattered.

John All right. Thanks, father.

Noel Coward. Easy Virtue. Harper & Brothers, 1926. Pp.55.58.