last, is detained by Fanny].

FANNY. Mr Trotter: I want to say something to you about this play.

TROTTER. No: thats forbidden. You must not attempt to _souffler_
the critic.

FANNY. Oh, I would not for the world try to influence your opinion.

TROTTER. But you do: you are influencing me very shockingly. You
invite me to this charming house, where I'm about to enjoy a charming
dinner. And just before the dinner I'm taken aside by a charming
young lady to be talked to about the play. How can you expect me to
be impartial? God forbid that I should set up to be a judge, or do
more than record an impression; but my impressions can be influenced;
and in this case youre influencing them shamelessly all the time.

FANNY. Dont make me more nervous than I am already, Mr Trotter. If
you knew how I feel!

TROTTER. Naturally: your first party: your first appearance in
England as hostess. But youre doing it beautifully. Dont be afraid.
Every _nuance_ is perfect.

FANNY. It's so kind of you to say so, Mr Trotter. But that isnt
whats the matter. The truth is, this play is going to give my father
a dreadful shock.

TROTTER. Nothing unusual in that, I'm sorry to say. Half the young
ladies in London spend their evenings making their fathers take them