Dasher. Certainly; a friend of the family; and, as a friend of the family, when the time comes you shall know all. Now go, that’s a good fellow. (Pushes him back to door, C.)
Mulligrub. But, sir, I shall not. (Aside.) Stop. I’ll watch. (Aloud.) Very well, sir; as I seem to be in the way, I will retire.
Dasher. I knew you would—you’re such a good fellow.
Mulligrub. Good fellow! (Aside.) Confound his impudence.
[Exit, C.
Dasher. Ha, ha! Got rid of him. (Comes down stage. Mulligrub enters, C., and steps behind screen.) Now for a tender interview with Miss Eva, ending in a proposal, which I know she will accept. (Enter Eva, c.) I knew you would come.
Eva. Because I promised. O, Mr. Dasher, that waltz was delightful.
Dasher. Indeed! I am glad you enjoyed it. If it gave you pleasure I should be satisfied, though my heart is heavy, and the waltz had little inspiration for me.
Eva. Dear me, Mr. Dasher, you look as melancholy as an owl. What has gone wrong?
Dasher. Nothing—everything—Miss Eva. I am on the verge of a precipice, a frightful precipice. (Mulligrub’s head appears above screen.)