Ber. Aisy now, Mrs. McFlynn, the business I have to attend to is of a political nature.
Ellen. Oh, ho!
Ber. (Sits at table.) Get me my writing imperials, the business is of importance, and must be attended to immediately, if not sooner.
Ellen. (Gets pen, ink and paper.) Sure, and is it reading writing you are going to do?
Ber. (Biz of looking over a large pile of documents—calls Ellen to him.) Ellen, come sit you down, and I’ll show you what position I hold in political affairs. (Ellen sits, Bernard reads letter in a very pompous manner.) “Hon. Bernard McFlynn—Sir, in appreciation of your services in the late political struggle, you have been unanimously appointed Engineer of the Morgue, a position of trust and responsibility. The duties attending the office are light, the hours of attendance being from 5 A. M. to 4 A. M. Report for duty at once. Respectfully, Claude Mulligan, secretary.” Now, Ellen, that’s an easy position; only an hour a day, from 5 to 4. (Rises, takes hat and coat.) Well, this business must be attended to at once (starting off.).
Ellen. (Calling him.) How long will you be gone, Bernard? you know we have nothing to eat in the house, and little Johnny Morrissey has grown hump-back from the want of food.
Ber. When I return from the City Hall, Ellen, we will hold an investigation as to the sanitary condition of the infant. [Exit C. L.
Ellen. (Comes down front.) Sure and it’s a nice job Bernard has got, begorra. Engineer of the Morgue, and only has to work an hour a day. (Rearranges the table. Knock at door.) Come in!
[Enter Landlord.]