Pete. (aside) Guess I'd better be leabin'!
Wheeler. Mrs. Thornton, it is with the most profound pleasure that I accept the invitation you so graciously extended to me this morning.
Pete. (aside) Listen to dat. He's puttin' dem on, now.
Wheeler. I trust my tardiness has not inconvenienced you. A business affair detained me.
Mrs. T. Not in the least. My brother-in-law, whom I desired you to meet, has not arrived yet. I cannot imagine what detained him. We expected him by the early stage, but he did not come. I fear he will disappoint us, for the last stage was due here over two hours ago. (Door bell off L. 2 E.) That must be he now.
Miss A. Oh, dear, the Deacon must not see me in this condition. (to Wheeler) Please excuse me, I'll take Fido out and give the dear little pet something to eat. He must be nearly famished.
Helen. (to Wheeler) Please excuse me, too, I have some duties to attend to.
Wheeler. (bowing) Certainly. (Exeunt Miss A. and Helen, L. 2 E. Door bell rings)
Mrs. T. Pete, answer the bell.