(The Captain reads the letters while Spruce inventories the clothes.)
Spruce My intent was not to put you in a temper—but without losing time we must make our inventory. This costume for chicanery surely belonged to some Scotsman, and this is an Irish peasant. (displaying clothes) Now, this one is rather modish—usable for a hunt, I think.
Captain
Oh, Heavens!
Spruce (startled by the Captain's outburst)
Where will all this thing end?
Captain
This adventure isn't easily believed.
Spruce
Sir, what's wrong with you—are you getting dizzy?
Captain
It's a miracle. You won't believe it when I tell you.
Spruce
Sir, I will, I promise you—if you don't lie.
Captain As you know, I was born a McNaughten, near Edinburgh. I am of a blood which ceded valor to no one. You know that having lost father, mother, and relatives, and penniless, I was left to spend my days in the highlands. To escape, I joined the army when I was only fifteen. Only I had a brother, who lived with me in the home of my uncle—a rich old miser who wouldn't give me a penny. So I ran away, and they haven't heard of me for many years. And I've heard from many sources that both my brother and my uncle thought me dead.
Spruce I know all that. And I know your mother died in giving birth to you and that same brother. You and your brother are as indistinguishable as two glasses of milk. In short, you are twins. So what?