Biddy (aside).—I’m nather a gate post nur a clothes prop. (aloud) Mr. Neverslip, I’ll be goin’ to the kitchen; I lift the banes on the sthove; I think they’re burnin’. [Exit Biddy R. E.]
Nicholas.—For mercy sake do come.
Matilda (singing).—I am coming, darling, coming——
Nicholas.—How provokingly cool you are. [Enter Matilda L. E.]
Matilda.—Now, my dear, we’ll be off. [Both start toward L. E.] Why, where’s your hat?
Nicholas (feels his head).—Good gracious! It is up stairs—Matilda, dear, will you get it for me?
Matilda.—You cruel man——(knock heard from without.)
Both.—Horrors! Some one at the door!
Nicholas.—Biddy!
Biddy.—Ay, sur! [Enter Biddy R. E.]