Evelyn. (Reading front page) Oh, Madge, Elsie Hardiman is engaged.

Madge. Not really?

Aunt Ida. (From up stage, comes slightly R.C. Uneasily and anxiously watching Evelyn) Isn't there--isn't there any other news, Evelyn?

Evelyn. No, dear.

Aunt Ida. Anybody married?

Evelyn. No one we know.

Aunt Ida. (With a forced attempt at cheerfulness) Or dead?

Evelyn. (Absently. Looking over paper) No, dear. Ab--so--lutely noth---- (Her eye suddenly lights on Smith's death notice. She reads it in pantomime. A look of horror comes over her face and she utters a shrill scream.)

(All rise hastily with exclamations.)

Faraday. (Jumping to his feet) God bless my soul! What's the matter, what's the matter?