Jane (calmly). Dear Alice! I understand perfectly. Mr Bootle said in
his letter to you that he was coming for his answer, and I see what
answer you have given him. (To Bootle.) You remember I told you it
would be "Yes." I know my little sister, you see.
Bootle (tactlessly). But--you told me I could kiss you!
Jane (smiling). And I tell you again now. I believe it is usual for
men to kiss their sisters-in-law? (She offers her cheek. Bootle,
whose day it is, salutes her respectfully.) And now (gaily) perhaps
I had better leave you young people alone!
[Exit, with a backward look at the audience expressive of the fact
that she has been wearing the mask.
Bootle. Alice, then you are mine, after all.
Alice. James! (They k--No, perhaps better not. There has been quite
enough for one evening.) And to think that she knew all the time!
Now I am quite, quite happy. And James--you WILL remember in
future that I am Miss ALICE Prendergast?
Bootle (gaily). My dear, I shall only be able to remember that you
are The Future Mrs Bootle!