Blith. (aside). This is the young man commissioned to restore my beaver.

Fred. You know all!

Blith. (puzzled). That’s rather a lot to know—but still——

Fred. Hush! For two hours I have been following in your footsteps—(Restraining Blithers, who wishes to speak.) She tells me she has written twice—but what has become of her letters? When I arrived at the little shop I learnt all! They told me you were here, and so I rushed back to catch you!

Blith. To catch me? What for?

Fred. Oh! sir, I am young—she is young—you were young—once!

Blith. Yes, but——

Fred. Sir, she is lovely—I am considered fairly good-looking—you may have been good-looking yourself!

Blith. No! I——

Fred. Yes—I insist on giving you the benefit of the doubt! Sir, we loved! That is our excuse!