We--we're in Ennismore Gardens, you know. [_He acknowledges the information by a stiff bow. She interests herself in her glove-buttons._] You--you've chosen to drop out of my--out of our lives so completely that I hardly like to ask you to come and see us. PHILIP. [_Constrainedly._] You are very good; but I--I don't go about much in these days, and I'm afraid---- OTTOLINE. [_Quickly._] Oh, I'm sure you're wise. [_Drawing herself erect._] A writer shouldn't give up to society what is meant for mankind, should he? [_She passes him distantly, to leave the room, and he suddenly grips her shoulder._ PHILIP. Ottoline----! [_By a mutual impulse, they glance swiftly at the open door, and then she throws herself into his arms._ OTTOLINE. Philip----! [_Just as swiftly, they separate; and a moment afterwards_ ROOPE _returns, rubbing his hands cheerily._ ROOPE. [_Advancing, but not shutting the door._] There! Now we're by ourselves! [_To_ OTTOLINE.] You're not running away? OTTOLINE. [_Confused._] Oh, I--I---- ROOPE. It's only half-past-three. Why don't you and Mackworth sit down and have a little talk together? [_To_ PHILIP, _who has strolled to the further window and is looking into the street._] You're in no hurry, Phil? PHILIP. Not in the least. ROOPE. [_Crossing to the writing-table._] I'll finish answering my letters; I sha'n't have a moment later on. [_Gathering up his correspondence._] You won't disturb me; I'll polish 'em off in another room. [_To_ OTTOLINE.] Are you goin' to Lady Paulton's by-and-by, by any chance? OTTOLINE. [_Again at the fireplace, her back to_ ROOPE _and_ PHILIP.] And Mrs. Jack Cathcart's--and Mrs. Le Roy's---- ROOPE. You shall take me to Lowndes Square, if you will. [_Recrossing._] Sha'n't be more than ten minutes. [_At the door._] Ten minutes, dear excellent friends. A quarter-of-an-hour at the outside. [_He vanishes, closing the door. There is a pause, and then_ PHILIP _and_ OTTOLINE _turn to one another and he goes to her._ OTTOLINE. [_Her hands in his, breathlessly._] You _are_ glad to see me, then! [_Laughing shyly._] Ha, ha! You _are_ glad! PHILIP. [_Tenderly._] Yes. OTTOLINE. You brute, Phil, to make me behave in such an undignified way! PHILIP. If there's any question of dignity, what on earth has become of mine? I was the first to break down. OTTOLINE.