JAMES. Yes, sir.

PETER. You've noticed it, too? [Picks up another letter, looking over it.

JAMES. Yes, sir.

PETER. [Pausing, taking off his eye-glasses and holding them on his thumb. Philosophically.] How prettily Nature accomplishes her will— making a girl doubly beautiful that a young man may yield his freedom the more easily. Wonderful! [During the following, he glances over letters.] A young girl is like a violet sheltered under a bush, James; and that is as it should be, isn't it?

JAMES. No, sir, I don't think so.

PETER. [Surprised.] What?

JAMES. I believe people should think for themselves—not be….

PETER. Go on.

JAMES. —er—

PETER. Well?