Hiram. What did you come here for?

Percy. I came at the invitation of your daughter Helen.

Hiram. Jumpin’ bullfrogs! What do you think of that, Hick?

Hick. Sort of a misunderstandin’, it seems. (He laughs.) He thought you was speakin’ of Helen, and you was meanin’ the old boat all the time. (Laughs uproariously.) Oh, dear! What a joke.

Percy. Well, I am very sorry that such a mistake should be made. But I can easily understand now. It is rather unfortunate, but no harm has been done.

Hiram. Not as I knows of, young fellow. So Helen invited you to come over, did she?

Percy. Yes, she did.

Hiram. Well, I reckon I had better call her out, then. (Calls to R.) Helen! Helen!

Hel. (unseen by audience). What is it, father?

Hiram. You’re wanted here right away.