Pilcher. It cannot fail. A box of this character—larger or smaller, according to the size of the family and their behaviour is left at each house on the first of the year. All little failings, peccadilloes, and asperities are strictly fined. The inevitable result is that either the family behaviour improves, or the parish charities benefit. I'm starting its operation in my parish to-day. Forgive any inexcusable rudeness in leaving the first box with you. I must hurry off! [Shaking hands.] Good-bye, Professor.
Prof. I should like to make that point clear with regard to free will——
Pilcher. When you have an hour, or shall I say a year, to spare, we might argue it out——
Prof. You're going to the White House? If I might accompany you——
Pilcher. Delighted!
[Shakes hands in dumb show with Dolly and Harry.
Prof. Renie, you've had your restless fits again. You'd better come with us——
Renie. But I've already been walking——
Prof. My dear, this bracing country air is just what you need. Keep out in it all the day long——
Renie. Oh, very well—the White House, and the fish-pond as usual, I suppose?