Jim. Thank you, sir, I'll try. I suppose a man and a woman are two halves, equal halves, but I have a feeling that Jennie won't be content with half; she will want two thirds at least. (Exit, L. U. E.)
Dr. E. Poor fellow, I trust his Jennie will not be obdurate. As he says, it is an awful thing to be in love. Love! Is it a blessing or a curse? A week ago, and for me it meant happiness, and now—ah, Kate, what is it that stands between us? I can obtain no explanation from her; she refuses to see me alone. Is it what a man who has less faith in the sex than I would call a woman's caprice? No! Kate is a noble, a true woman, nothing can make me doubt that! "I must honor as well as love the man I marry." What can she have meant? What have I done? I am groping in the darkness, but I will find my way into the light yet!
(Enter Mr. Grovenor, R. 1 E.)
Mr. G. Ah, my dear doctor, you are a stranger indeed. I sent for you to-day, as I am feeling far from well. I have had a great mental strain of late and I fear it has been too much for me.
Dr. E. I can truly believe it. I am grieved to see you looking so ill.
Mr. G. My head troubles me sadly.
Dr. E. You need rest.
Mr. G. Rest! Rest is impossible for me.
Dr. E. Cannot your son—
Mr. G. Eugene! no! He is good for nothing except to sing comic songs at champagne suppers and talk soft nonsense to equally soft girls. No. I regret to say Eugene is not a son of whom I can be proud, or who is willing to be useful to me.