START. Lady Castlejordan: Well! I see what you’re thinking about.

Minchin: Lord Noel--that’s Lady Noeline?

Lady Castlejordan: From your point of view, yes.

Minchin: Oh, dear, oh, dear!

Lady Castlejordan: Noel has been staying with Mrs. Vipont in town for some weeks. The Viponts have been kept in London, you know, by the late session. I’ve missed Noel sadly. (Referring to her watch) He will be at the Hall in half an hour.

Minchin: Will he! And will your two other gir--boys?

Lady Castlejordan: They spent their August in Scotland; they’ve been home some days. (Walking about restlessly) It chafes me so to think I am not at the station myself to meet my eldest son.

Minchin: You’ve deputed--whom did I hear you say?

Lady Castlejordan: Sergeant Shuter.

Minchin: Man or woman?

Lady Castlejordan: