Gussie takes position in front, clears his throat and makes a few preliminary gestures as if preparing to make a speech.
Gus. Friends, Romans, Countrymen—
O’Rourke. Naw you don’t! Naw you don’t! You don’t borry anything from me at all, at all.
Gus. (ignoring the interruption) I have summoned you here to witness the coronation ceremonies of Mr. McGinnis O’Rourke, whom I now proclaim King of the North Pole with the title of Santa Claus II.
Santa. (going over to Gussie and speaking angrily) What are you saying, sir? This is treason! Do you hear? Treason!
(Gussie goes through pantomime of explaining to Santa
O’Rourke. Do yez hear that now? Oi’m going to be King, so Oi am; and Kitty, you shall be moy bride and do me washin’. You’re a princess now Oi belave, but Oi’m going to make yez a rale queen. Do yez hear, Kitty moy darlint? A rale queen and you shall have a new piece of gum ivery day, so you shall.
Mrs. C. What is that dreadful man saying? Come Kitty my child, you must not stay here to be insulted in this way.
(tries to lead Kitty off R.
Santa. (speaking aloud as he returns to his wife’s side) All right, Gussie, my boy; but be careful, be very careful.