Part 26 (1/2)

[_Hesitatingly, to_ PAULA.] Good-bye, Mrs. Tanqueray.

[PAULA _inclines her head with the slightest possible movement, then resumes her former position._ ELLEAN _comes from the hall and takes_ MRS. CORTELYON _out of the room. After a brief silence,_ PAULA _turns with a fierce cry, and hurriedly takes off her coat and hat, and tosses them upon the settee._

PAULA.

Oh! Oh! Oh! [_She drops into the chair as_ AUBREY _returns; he stands looking at her._] Who's that?

AUBREY.

I. You have altered your mind about going out?

PAULA.

Yes. Please to ring the bell.

AUBREY.

[_Touching the bell._] You are angry about Mrs. Cortelyon and Ellean. Let me try to explain my reasons----

PAULA.

Be careful what you say to me just now! I have never felt like this--except once--in my life. Be careful what you say to me!

_A_ SERVANT _enters._

PAULA.

[_Rising._] Is Watts at the door with the cart?

SERVANT.

Yes, ma'am.

PAULA.

Tell him to drive down to the post-office directly, with this.

[_Picking up the letter which has been lying upon the table._

AUBREY.

With that?

PAULA.

Yes. My letter to Lady Orreyed.

[_Giving the letter to the_ SERVANT, _who goes out._

AUBREY.