ALGERNON
It is awfully hard work doing nothing. However, I don't mind hard
work where there is no definite object of any kind.
[Enter LANE.]
LANE
Miss Fairfax.
[Enter GWENDOLEN, LANE goes out.]
ALGERNON
Gwendolen, upon my word!
GWENDOLEN
Algy, kindly turn your back. I have something very particular to say to Mr. Worthing.
ALGERNON
Really, Gwendolen, I don't think I can allow this at all.
GWENDOLEN
Algy, you always adopt a strictly immoral attitude towards life. You are not quite old enough to do that. [ALGERNON retires to the fireplace.] JACK
My own darling! GWENDOLEN Ernest, we may never be married. From the expression on mamma's face I fear we never shall. Few parents nowadays pay any regard
to what their children say to them. The old-fashioned respect for the young
is fast dying out. Whatever influence I ever had over mamma, I lost at the
age of three. But although she may prevent us from becoming man and wife,
and I may marry someone else, and marry often, nothing that she can pos
sibly do can alter my eternal devotion to you.
JACK
Dear Gwendolen!
GWENDOLEN
The story of your romantic origin, as related to me by mamma,
with unpleasing comments, has naturally stirred the deeper fibres of my
nature. Your Christian name has an irresistible fascination. The simplicity
of your character makes you exquisitely incomprehensible to me. Your town
address at the Albany I have. What is your address in the country?
JACK
The Manor House, Woolton, Hertfordshire.
[ALGERNON, who has been carefully listening, smiles to himself, and writes the address on his shirt-cuff.3 Then picks up the Railway Guide.]
GWENDOLEN
There is a good postal service, I suppose? It may be necessary
to do something desperate. That of course will require serious consideration.
I will communicate with you daily.
2. A music hall in Leicester Square that featured 3. Because shirt cuffs were heavily starched they light entertainment. provided a good surface on which to make notes.
.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, ACT 2 / 1713
JACK My own one!
GWENDOLEN
How long do you remain in town? JACK Till Monday. GWENDOLEN
Good! Algy, you may turn round now.
ALGERNON
Thanks, I've turned round already.
GWENDOLEN
YOU may also ring the bell. JACK
You will let me see you to your carriage, my own darling?
