But the wind and the stars have mocked
me--they have laughed in my face...."
SIR GEOFFREY. [_A little uncomfortable._] Persian poets, like all poets,
have a funny way of pretending that the stars take an interest in us. To
me, it's their chief charm that they're so unconcerned. They are lonely,
too.
LADY TORMINSTER. [_Suddenly, violently._] Don't say that again--don't--I
can't bear it!
SIR GEOFFREY. [_Aghast._] Gertrude!!!
LADY TORMINSTER. [_In a whisper._] Yes.
[_He stares haggardly at her; she does not move, but looks out,
through the open window, into the night._
SIR GEOFFREY. [_With a deep breath._] Well, I suppose we had better turn
in--
LADY TORMINSTER. When do you go to China?
SIR GEOFFREY. I shall take the first boat.
LADY TORMINSTER. And you will come back--?
SIR GEOFFREY. In a year--or two--or three--
LADY TORMINSTER. We shall hear from you?
SIR GEOFFREY. [_With an effort of lightness._] Certainly. And I will send
you chests of tea--best family Souchong--and jars of ginger. Also little
boxes that fit into each other. I am afraid that is all I know at present
of Chinese manufactures.
LADY TORMINSTER. [_Musing._] You will be away so long?
SIR GEOFFREY. You told me to do something. I shall learn Chinese. I
believe there are five hundred letters in the alphabet.
LADY TORMINSTER. As many as that!
SIR GEOFFREY. It is possible that I exaggerate. Well, Lady Torminster, I
think I'll say good-night.
[_He offers his hand, which she ignores.
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