Part 16 (1/2)

With Mrs. Cortelyon--yes.

PAULA.

Mrs. Cortelyon! The woman who might have set the example of calling on me when we first threw out roots in this deadly-lively soil!

Deuce take Mrs. Cortelyon!

AUBREY.

Hus.h.!.+ my dear girl!

PAULA.

[_Returning to her seat._] Oh, I know she's an old acquaintance of yours--and of the first Mrs. Tanqueray. And she joins the rest of 'em in slapping the second Mrs. Tanqueray in the face. However, I have my revenge--she's six-and-forty, and I wish nothing worse to happen to any woman.

AUBREY.

Well, she's going to town, Cayley says here, and his visit's at an end. He's coming over this morning to call on you. Shall we ask him to transfer himself to us? Do say yes.

PAULA.

Yes.

AUBREY.

[_Gladly._] Ah, ha! old Cayley!

PAULA.

[_Coldly._] He'll amuse _you_.

AUBREY.

And you too.

PAULA.

Because you find a companion, shall I be boisterously hilarious?

AUBREY.

Come, come! He talks London, and you know you like that.

PAULA.

London! London or Heaven! which is farther from me!

AUBREY.

Paula!