Page:Wilde - A Woman of no Importance, 1909.djvu/197

RhACT IV. LORD ILLINGWORTH The boy is to be with you for six months in the year, and with me for the other six. That is perfectly fair, is it not? You can have whatever allowance you like, and live where you choose. As for your past, no one knows anything about it except myself and Gerald. There is the Puritan, of course, the Puritan in white muslin, but she doesn't count. She couldn't tell the story without explaining that she objected to being kissed, could she? And all the women would think her a fool and the men think her a bore. And you need not be afraid that Gerald won't be my heir. I needn't tell you I have not the slightest intention of marrying.

MRS. ARBUTHNOT You come too late. My son has no need of you. You are not necessary.

LORD ILLINGWORTH What do you mean, Rachel?

MRS. ARBUTHNOT That you are not necessary to Gerald's career. He does not require you. 179