glee]. Hurrah!

HARRIET [quietly to MARGARET]. That's very nice of you to suggest--of
course I don't know----

MAGGIE [in fear]. For God's sake, say yes.

MARGARET [quietly to HARRIET]. Of course, I don't know whether John
would. He is very peculiar in these matters. He sets his value on his
work and thinks it beneath him to discuss price.

HETTY [to MAGGIE]. You needn't try to make us feel small.

MARGARET. Still, I might quite delicately mention to him that inasmuch
as you have many influential friends you would be very glad to--to----

MAGGIE [to HETTY]. Finish what I don't want to say.

HETTY [to HARRIET]. Help her out.

HARRIET. Oh, yes, introductions will follow the exhibition of my
portrait. No doubt I----

HETTY [to HARRIET]. Be patronizing.

HARRIET. No doubt I shall be able to introduce your husband to his
advantage.

MAGGIE [relieved]. Saved.

MARGARET. If I find John in a propitious mood I shall take pleasure, for
your sake, in telling him about your beauty. Just as you are sitting now
would be a lovely pose.

MAGGIE [to MARGARET]. We can go now.

HETTY [to HARRIET]. Don't let her think she is doing us a favor.

HARRIET. It will give me pleasure to add my name to your husband's list
of patronesses.

MAGGIE [excitedly to MARGARET]. Run home and tell John the good news.

MARGARET [leisurely to HARRIET]. I little guessed when I came for
a pleasant chat about old times that it would develop into business
arrangements. I had no idea, Harriet, that you had any intention of
being painted. By Le Grange, too. Well, I came just in time to rescue
you.

MAGGIE [to MARGARET]. Run home and tell John. Hurry, hurry!

HETTY [to HARRIET]. You managed the order very neatly. She doesn't
suspect that you wanted it.

HARRIET. Now if I am not satisfied with my portrait I shall blame you,
Margaret, dear. I am relying upon your opinion of John's talent.

MAGGIE [to MARGARET]. She doesn't suspect what you came for. Run home
and tell John!

HARRIET. You always had a brilliant mind, Margaret.

MARGARET. Ah, it is you who flatter, now.

MAGGIE [to MARGARET]. You don't have to stay so long. Hurry home!

HARRIET. Ah, one does not flatter when one tells the truth.

MARGARET [smiles]. I must be going or you will have me completely under
your spell.

HETTY [looks at clock]. Yes, do go. I have to dress for dinner.

HARRIET [to MARGARET]. Oh, don't hurry.

MAGGIE [to HETTY]. I hate you!

MARGARET [to HA