A chiral-U(3) x U(3)-invariant Lagrangian and a (3(,3)+(3,3() breaking term are written in terms of (3(,3)+(3,3() representations which are functions of nonlinearly transforming scalar and pseudoscalar fields. The invariant Lagrangian admits only derivative couplings between scalar and pseudoscalar fields. The kinetic-energy SU(3) breaking which is induced by the scalar vacuum expectation values leads to a simple parametrization of the pseudoscalar mixing angle. Estimates of the eta'..--> gamma gamma.. and eta..--> gamma gamma.. amplitudes and the (psi..-->..eta'..gamma..)/(psi..-->..eta..gamma..) ratio compare reasonably well with experimental values. Scalar-particle decays are discussed, and the delta(980)..-->..eta..pi.. width determines F/sub K//F/sub ..pi../approx. =1.15. The kappa(1350) and epsilon(1300) widths are estimated and the eta'..-->..eta..pi pi.. decay discussed. The overall description compares well with experiment.