[Clasps her hands gratefully.] How sweet and thoughtful you are to me! I will take a walk.

Dr. Herdal.

[With a suppressed smile.] Do! And—h'm!—you needn't trouble to come back. I have advertised for a male book-keeper—they are less emotional. Good-night, my little Senna!

Senna.

[Softly and quiveringly.] Good-night, Dr. Herdal!

[Staggers out of hall-door, blowing kisses.

Mrs. Herdal.

[Enters through the window, plaintively.] Quite an acquisition for you, Haustus, this Miss Blakdraf!

Dr. Herdal.

She's—h'm—extremely civil and obliging. But I am parting with her, Aline—mainly on your account.