Miss Spyall.—Oh! (indignantly).—Don’t do that again. I dislike such familiarity.
Matilda (astonished).—Why, what’s the matter with you?
Miss Spyall.—I guess if I were to pull your ear you would know how it feels. There! (They turn their backs to each other angrily).
(Pat peeps from under table and pulls Matilda’s ear).
Matilda (springing to her feet).—You impudent gossip! How dare you? (rubs her ear) If you want exercise, try pedestrianism; I will excuse your presence. (Points to door).
Miss Spyall (rising and backing off).—I am shocked beyond expression. (aside) If I only get out—the woman’s surely mad.
[Enter Nicholas L. E. with umbrella.]
Matilda.—My dear, give Miss Spyall the umbrella; she is surely ill and should get home with all possible speed.
Miss Spyall.—Not at all, not at all, sir; it is your insolent wife who needs your attention.
Nicholas.—What is the meaning of such singular language? (picks up bottle) You have not been tampering with this?