The Equinox (Volume I, Number IV)

THE EQUINOX [EUPHEMIA looks up and darts a furious glance at him; for she knows that he is mocking British solemnity and cant. DELHOMME. Crushed—crushed in a moment MRS. ossory [very fiously|. Without a warning. Ah well, we must hope that [Her voice becomes a mumble. DELHOMME. I will bid you good morning ; I am sure you will not wish strangers to intrude upon your grief. If there is anything that I can do MR. OssorY [conventionally]. Pray do not leave us yet, Monsieur Delhomme. Lunch is just ready. DELHOMME. I really think that I should go. [He shakes hands. MRS. ossory. Good morning. We are so grateful for your sympathy and kindness. [He turns to the old man.] Grand- father is asleep. [DELHOMME shakes hands coldly with carr, wondering why he does not offer to come with him. He goes to EUPHEMIA. EUPHEMIA. [Jumps up and gives her hand, hiding her tear-stained face. She has a slight lis.) Good morning, monsieur. [He bends over her hand and kisses tt. DELHOMME. Always my sympathy and devotion, made- moiselle. EUPHEMIA. Thank you—thank you. [Her real attitude to him ts listlessness bordering on aversion, but constrained by politeness; he mistakes tt for modesty striving with young love.) DELHOMME. Good morning, Mr. Ossory. Anything I can do, of course; anything I can do. 214