CAR. (_rising_) Do you know you're a wonderfully good fellow?
DOR. Oh, rot! Well, may I be--a little use to somebody for once?
CAR. I won't borrow money of you, if you meant that.
DOR. It's a devilish odd thing that every good woman is a bit of a coward, and she's always afraid of what people will say, especially if it isn't true.
CAR. That description fits me less than any woman in the world.
DOR. You won't let me be of use to you, because I happen to be a man, and you happen to be a woman--ain't that so? (_rises_) I see how it is. I've made an ass of myself. You won't have my help or my friendship.
CAR. (_rises_) I don't need the help, but I'll take the friendship.
CAR. (_shuts work-box_) What I thought about you was wrong. I beg your pardon.
CAR. (_leans on box_) Now, will you do me a little favour?
CAR. Will you go to bed? (_he backs with surprise_) They mustn't come back and find you here.
DOR. Of course not, I'll go at once; and if at any time you should want a pal, you'll let me----
CAR. Hush! (_crosses to door and opens it_) I fancy I heard the key in the front door. (_she listens_) Yes, it is them. Miss Pillenger is saying she wants to speak to me.
DOR. (_takes up hat_) By George! I'd better nip into the scullery. (_crosses to scullery_)
DOR. Of course! Stupid of me! (_he tries the door_)
DOR. Can't get the beastly door open. Something's wrong with the key.
CAR. You'll be too late! (_advances towards him_)
DOR. Here! (_opens door_) What's this? Ah, the broom cupboard, any port in a storm! (_goes in_; COOK _shuts door and stands there for a moment_)
MISS P. Cook, I remembered I hadn't ordered to-morrow's breakfast. (_crosses and sits_ R. _of table_)
CAR. No. What would you like? (_crosses to top of table_)
MISS P. (_sitting_ R. _of table_) Has Keziah returned?
MISS P. Both my brother and Captain Dorvaston were too unwell to remain with us. They have doubtless gone to bed, so I will ask you to go upstairs very quietly.
CAR. Certainly! I think I hear Keziah. (_she goes to back-door_)
MISS P. She is very late. (_pause_) Why don't you open the door?
MISS P. It should be oiled. (COOK _opens the door and admits_ KEZIAH, _who doesn't see_ MISS PILLENGER)
KEZ. Oh, Cook, I did enjoy myself a treat! 'E was there--and when I come out---- (_comes_ C. _and sees_ MISS PILLENGER) Oh lor!