Dolly. What are you laughing at?
Matt. I've just left—— [Chuckling.] I've just left the Professor down at the fish-pond explaining to Lucas all about his gray matter, and—— [Roars.
Dolly. I don't see anything to laugh at.
Matt. Twelve miles in the snow—— I say, Doll, we're making a splendid start for the New Year! [Laughing.
Dolly. Dad! Will you please leave off? [Shaking his shoulder.] Will you be serious?
Matt. Yes, my dear!! [Pulling himself together and straightening his features.] Yes, I will. After all, it's a serious matter.
Dolly. It's very serious for me, in a neighbourhood like this!
Matt. It's serious for me, as I was Lucas's guardian. And it's serious for him. If he goes and plays the fool, it may spoil his career—the young ass!
Dolly. Very well, then, will you please treat it seriously and set to work and help me?