(Sits in chair. Alphonzo don’t know what he’s doing, goes to shave old man with fender, &c., and any silly business, ad lib.)
Hand. Well, I’ll see you again.
Alph. Not if I see you first.
Hand. (Whispering.) Help me to get a clue as to where the figure is, and I’ll share the reward with you—that’s fair enough. (Going towards door.) You understand?
Alph. (Aside.) Yes; I wish I didn’t.
(Old Man rises, after being shaved. As he rises, a long knocking is heard at screen.—Lightning and gong.)
Man. Mercy, what was that?
Alph. I think we shall have rain. (Aside, in great excitement.) She’s waking up! What am I to do?
Venus. (Inside.) Alphonzo, release me!
Alph. (Terrified, but still putting a bold face on the matter.) Good morning, sir; hope you had a nice shave. (Pushes him headlong out of shop.—Business.) Beg pardon, you nearly slipped! (Handsaw goes to assist Old Man to rise, and Alphonzo bangs the door to and locks.) Another two minutes like that and I’ll get the fever. I wonder if they’re gone? (He looks through keyhole.) Yes, they’re going.