Mr. D. (solemnly). I shall now proceed, gentlemen, to describe two circles around the well. (Marks out two circles with his rod.) Will you please to advance? (Squire R. walks towards the pump.)
Squire R. Sir, this appears somewhat like trifling.
Mr. D. That depends upon yourself, sir. To the light-minded, serious matters appear light. I deal with the truths of science. (To Mr. B.) Will you come nearer, sir?
Mr. B. (advancing cautiously). No danger, I hope; no witchcraft?
Mr. D. Not the slightest. I will now work the handle. You two, being fully charged, will stand at opposite points (placing them), and proceed to revolve silently in these circles,—you, sir (to Squire R.), revolving in the external orbit, and you, sir (to Mr. B.), in the internal: at your third conjunction, water will gush forth. (Works the handle slowly. The others walk as directed. At their third meeting, water streams out. They step back.)
Squire R. (lifting both hands). Marvellous! most wonderful!
Mr. B. Wal, I declare! Be you a wizard? I hope—I hope it’s Christian doings.
Mr. D. (with a smile, and wave of the hand). What you have witnessed, gentlemen, is merely a new triumph of science.
Mr. B. (with a sigh of relief). I’m glad it’s science: I was afraid ’twas witchcraft. Send in your bill, stranger. (Pumps.) I’m all in a heap. Science!
Mr. D. Permit me to inform you, sir, that witchcraft is science; only science doesn’t know it. Good-morning, gentlemen (takes his machine): I have business farther on. Have the goodness to accept my card (presenting it).