_GERALD discovered, seated at a writing table, with his back to the curtains, writing busily. MARGERY'S head appears through the curtains, which she holds closely round it, so that only her face is visible. She watches GERALD for a few moments, with a broad smile on her face._
[_Resumes his writing. A peal of laughter behind the curtains, and MARGERY'S head reappears, laughing. GERALD throws down his pen._
I'm not cross, dear; but these repeated interludes make composition rather difficult.
Oh, bother! you've been all the morning at that stupid book, and I'm so happy, I can't help it. Kiss me, and say that you forgive me!
Only three this morning. You used to like kissing me.
No, but it's being happy, and that's worth all the books that ever were written.
Yes--being happy--that's the great thing.
I didn't know I sighed. Writing's hard work.
Then put the book away! [_Thrusts the MS. aside._] I've such news for you!
Such good news. Guess what it is. I'll give you three tries.
I'm sure I shan't, because I am not going to guess at all.
Cross again! You'd better not be, or you know the penalty!
A card from Lady Wargrave! And addressed to you!
Oh, that's another lesson! Never call things by their right names, it's vulgar!
This is an olive-branch, and no mistake! So aunt is thawing at last.
Is that another lesson? Never use one syllable when two will do? Very well, Gerald, I'll remember that. But what do you mean by olive-branch?
GERALD [_looks at her, and sighs again_].
Yes, tell me. I want to make sure as I go along.
An overture--a sign of reconciliation--like holding out your hand.
Ah, now I understand! But what a funny thing to call it--olive-branch!
GERALD [_shivers slightly and goes over to the mantelpiece. Aside_].
It didn't sound like that in Mapledurham! [_Conquering himself, returns to her._] I'm so glad aunt's come round. You don't know how it's worried me--her estrangement.
They've all come round now. They've all recognized me. Oh, I'm so happy, Gerald! It isn't half as hard to be a lady as I thought!
Show me the answer when you've written it!
I know what you mean. I might use all short words instead of long ones. [_GERALD laughs._] Don't be afraid: I'll pick the longest in the dictionary. [_Kisses him._] Ah, Gerald, dear! short words were good enough for you once!