A Marriage Has Been Arranged 

by Alfred Sutro

The play is a one-act comedy that centers around a brief but intense interaction between Lady Aline de Vaux, a beautiful but financially struggling aristocrat, and Mr. Harrison Crockstead, a wealthy but socially ambitious businessman. The setting is a ballroom during a grand social event.

As the play begins, Lady Aline is approached by Crockstead, who bluntly proposes marriage to her. He explains that while he has amassed great wealth, he lacks the social status that she, as an aristocrat, possesses. Crockstead believes that a marriage between them would be mutually beneficial: he would gain the social standing he craves, and she would secure the financial stability she needs.

Initially, Lady Aline seems to consider his offer, but as the conversation unfolds, she reveals that she is well aware of his intentions and is not as desperate as he might think. With wit and charm, she turns the tables on Crockstead, making it clear that while she may entertain his proposal, she will do so on her own terms.

In the end, Lady Aline cleverly asserts her independence, leaving Crockstead impressed and somewhat humbled. The play concludes with the possibility of a marriage that, while initially proposed as a cold business arrangement, might hold the potential for something more complex and genuine.