[_Looking at him quietly._] I think I should put it in another way. One has to be very strong and very sure of oneself to go against the ordinary view of things. And if one isn't, perhaps it's better not to run any risks, but just to walk along the same secure old road as the common herd. It's not exhilarating, it's not brave, and it's rather dull. But it's eminently safe. [BASIL _scarcely hears the last words, but listens intently to other sounds outside_. BASIL. What's that? I thought I heard a carriage. JOHN. [_A little surprised._] Do you expect any one? BASIL. I sent a wire to--to Hilda at the same time as to you. JOHN. Already? BASIL. [_Excited._] D'you think she'll come? JOHN. I don't know. [_A ring is heard at the front door._ BASIL. [_Running to the window._] There's some one at the door. JOHN. Perhaps it's occurred to her also that you're free. BASIL. [_With the utmost passion._] Oh, she loves me, and I--I adore her. God forgive me, I can't help it. [FANNY _comes in_. FANNY. If you please, sir, the Coroner's officer. THE END. PRINTED BY BALLANTYNE & COMPANY LTD AT THE BALLANTYNE PRESS TAVISTOCK STREET COVENT GARDEN LONDON