[Exit Gunning, R.
Parbury.
[Turning to Miss Woodward. He goes to her.] Forgive my laughter, Miss Woodward, but it isn’t often one surprises a philosopher in a blush. Now, let us see! [He sits and takes the letters. Miss Woodward remains standing by him. He reads. Interrupting himself after a moment, he laughs slightly.] Dear old George! [He continues reading, then signs the letter. He looks over another and says “Excellent!” and signs it. Then he quickly signs the other letters, sits back in his chair, and says] Thank you! [Miss Woodward gathers up the letters.] I’m afraid that’s all the work I can do to-day. I’d like to have gone on with the novel, but it seems the mood won’t come.
Miss Woodward.
I’m very sorry.
Parbury.
The day is out of joint.
Miss Woodward.
I wish I could do something.
Parbury.