The visitor was Algernon, who had traveled to the country without Jack's permission.
He confidently introduced himself as Ernest Worthing and expected to enjoy a brief joke.
Cecily's enthusiastic welcome surprised him.
She explained that she had heard many reports about his irresponsible behavior and terrible reputation.
Algernon was initially offended, but he quickly noticed that Cecily considered his reputation attractive rather than alarming.
He adjusted his behavior accordingly.
With charming regret, he admitted to several supposed faults and suggested that reform might still be possible.
Cecily warned him that complete reform could make him much less interesting.
Algernon became fascinated by her confidence and unusual imagination.
What had begun as a social trick rapidly developed into a genuine romance.
Cecily was even more prepared for the relationship than he realized.
She calmly informed him that they had already been engaged for several months.
Algernon was astonished and asked how an engagement could exist before they had met.
Cecily produced her diary and showed him the date of his imaginary proposal, her imaginary acceptance, and the record of a later quarrel.
She had also purchased a ring for herself on his behalf.
Algernon gradually understood that he had entered a romance with a complete history already written.
He found the situation ridiculous and delightful at the same time.
Then Cecily confessed one final preference.
She had always dreamed of marrying a man named Ernest because the name sounded honest and dependable.
Algernon's confidence briefly disappeared.
Like Jack, he suddenly decided that a change of name might be urgently necessary.