Mr. T. (in great agitation). A burglar was stealing the teapot, and I locked him in the silver-closet; and Hilda has run away to Cousin Anne's!
Mr. B. (irritably). Somebody explain. What has a burglar to do with Hilda?
Mr. T. He knew the value of the teapot. It belonged to the Duke of——
Mrs. T. Hilda was unhappy; she wanted to be like other girls. It's all her father's fault. (Bursts into tears.)
Mrs. B. Do I understand that there is a burglar in this house?
Mr. T. There is——
(Mrs. B. screams.)
Sue. Calm yourself, Fanny. My brother, with great presence of mind, grappled with the thief, relieved him of his booty, and has locked him in the silver-closet.
Mr. B. Bravo! Have you sent for the police?
Mr. T. (picking up telephone book). I was about to telephone, when we found Hilda's note——