Hen. Well, well; so be it. But I had better go up to the mansion and make the guests comfortable, and help Adrienne complete the arrangements for the grand ball this evening. Will you come? [Crosses to L. Reginald to R.]
Reg. Not just at present. I want to have a little quiet stroll in these grand old woods; besides, I want to finish my weed.
Hen. Well, I’m off! [Exit L. 2 E.]
Reg. As good a fellow as ever lived; with a tinge of melancholy in his make-up, and a little bitter against the female sex in general. Heigho! Probably a victim of a heartless coquette. Hum! That awkward slip of the tongue has betrayed me. He has discovered my feelings toward Adrienne. [Leans against tree, L. 2 E., in a study.]
Enter Sammy Dewdrop and Adolphus Softhead, R. 2 E. They do not perceive Reginald.
Sammy. [C.] Hang it all if I don’t think we’ve lost the way! [Looks around.]
Adolphus. [R. C.] Why didn’t you listen to me and come by the regular road? Oh, Sammy! What if night should overtake us? Oh! oh! [Sammy scratches his head. Reginald perceives them.]
Reg. [Aside.] Two big school-boys!
Sam. Now, look a’here, Adolphus! How did I know we’d get in such a pickle? [Sees sign on tree R. F.] Hurrah! We’re all right! Here’s a finger-post! [Sammy R. C. Adolphus C. Reads:] “Beware!” [Adolphus jumps in terror.] “Do not disturb the deer.” Oh, pshaw! What shall we do?