Plays: Lady Frederick, The Explorer, A Man of Honor Part 98

Really you're very long-winded. I said it all in four words.

MRS. CROWLEY.

So could I if I might write it down.

d.i.c.k.

You must say it.

MRS. CROWLEY.

But what I'm trying to make you understand is that I don't want to marry you a bit. You're just the sort of man who'll beat his wife regularly every Sat.u.r.day night.... You will say yes if I ask you, won't you?

d.i.c.k.

I've never been able to refuse a woman anything.

MRS. CROWLEY.

I have no doubt you will after six months of holy matrimony.

d.i.c.k.

I never saw any one make such a fuss about so insignificant a detail as a proposal of marriage.

MRS. CROWLEY.

d.i.c.k. [_She stretches out her hands, smiling, and he takes her in his arms._] You really are a detestable person.

d.i.c.k.

[_With a smile, taking a ring from his pocket._] I bought an engagement ring yesterday on the off chance of its being useful.

MRS. CROWLEY.

Then you meant to ask me all the time?

d.i.c.k.

Of course I did, you silly.

MRS. CROWLEY.

Oh, I wish I had known that before. I'd have refused you again.

d.i.c.k.

You absurd creature.

[_He kisses her._

MRS. CROWLEY.

[_Trying to release herself._] There's somebody coming.

d.i.c.k.

It's only Alec.

[ALEC _comes in_.

ALEC.

Hulloa!

d.i.c.k.

Alec, we've made friends, Mrs. Crowley and I.

ALEC.

It certainly looks very much like it.

d.i.c.k.

The fact is, I've asked her to marry me, and she....

MRS. CROWLEY.

[_Interrupting, with a smile._] After much pressure--

d.i.c.k.

Has consented.

ALEC.

I'm so glad. I heartily congratulate you both. I was rather unhappy at leaving d.i.c.k, Mrs. Crowley. But now I leave him in your hands, I'm perfectly content. He's the dearest, kindest old chap I've ever known.

d.i.c.k.

Shut up, Alec! Don't play the heavy father, or we shall burst into tears.

ALEC.

He'll be an admirable husband because he's an admirable friend.

MRS. CROWLEY.