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18

[After a short silence.] How are you, Beatty? And how are all down in Youghal? As dull as ever?

They were well when I left.

[Politely.] O, but I'm sorry I did not know you were coming. I would have met you at the train. Why did you do it? You have some queer ways about you, Beatty, haven't you?

[In the same tone.] Thank you, Robert. I am quite used to getting about alone.

Yes, but I mean to say O, well, you have arrived in your own characteristic way.

By Jove, Archie, too, is arriving in a characteristic way!

[Going towards him.] Goodness gracious, Archie! What is the matter?