Lord Augustus (chuckling) By Jove! By Jove!

Lord Windermere (up by the door) I am really off now, Lord Darlington. I am sorry you are leaving England so soon. Pray call on us when you come back! My wife and I will be charmed to see you!

Lord Darlington (up stage with Lord Windermere) I am afraid I shall be away for many years. Good- night!

Cecil Graham Arthur!

Lord Windermere What?

Cecil Graham I want to speak to you for a moment. No, do come!

Lord Windermere (putting on his coat) I can’t—I’m off!

Cecil Graham It is something very particular. It will interest you enormously.

Lord Windermere (smiling) It is some of your nonsense, Cecil.

Cecil Graham It isn’t! It isn’t really.

Lord Augustus (going to him) My dear fellow, you mustn’t go yet. I have a lot to talk to you about. And Cecil has something to show you.

Lord Windermere (walking over) Well, what is it?

Cecil Graham Darlington has got a woman here in his rooms. Here is her fan. Amusing, isn’t it?

A pause

Lord Windermere Good God! (Seizes the fan—Dumby rises)

Cecil Graham What is the matter?

Lord Windermere Lord Darlington!

Lord Darlington (turning round) Yes!

Lord Windermere What is my wife’s fan doing here in your rooms? Hands off, Cecil.° Don’t touch me.

Lord Darlington Your wife’s fan?

Lord Windermere Yes, here it is!

Lord Darlington (walking towards him) I don’t know!

Lord Windermere You must know. I demand an explanation. (To cecil graham) Don’t hold me, you fool.

Lord Darlington (aside) She is here after all!

Lord Windermere Speak, sir! Why is my wife’s fan here? Answer me! By God! I’ll search your rooms, and if my wife’s here, I’ll—° (Moves)

Lord Darlington You shall not search my rooms. You have no right to do so. I forbid you!