Brandon. Then he must be very filial, sir.
Sir Johnstone. Yes. He is. Well, then, it only remains to thank you for the most charming evening, to say nothing of the most charming company, the company being even more delightful than the books, and that’s saying an enormous amount. (Smiles.) Well. (To Leila) Good night———
Leila. Good night.
Sir Johnstone (to Raglan). Good night.
Raglan. Good night, sir.
Sir Johnstone. Good night, Mr. Cadell.
Rupert. Good night, sir.
[Sir Johnstone looks at Granillo, who is having another drink.
Sir Johnstone (moving towards door). And I’ll have to give you something in exchange for those books, you know.
Brandon. Never, sir.
Sir Johnstone. Oh yes. You must have something back. You must have some swaps, as we used to say. You must have your swaps. Oh yes. . . .
Brandon. Now you’re forgetting them, sir.
[Leila brings them to him and puts them shyly and kindly into his hand.
Sir Johnstone. Ah—thank you. That won’t do, will it? Just like me. Just like me. I’m getting on, you know. I’m getting old, that’s my trouble.
[He goes out, in a rather bewildered way, followed by Brandon. Mrs. Debenham smiles a farewell all round. They all murmur “Good night” and smile. She exits. Granillo follows them out.
Leila (yawning). Oh dear. Well—I’m going too.
Raglan. What part do you have to go to?
[Rupert is now at window, looking out.
Leila. Oh—I’m South Kensingtonish.
[ 67 ]
