Miss Sky. The song that you were trying to sing the other evening, “The Bay of Biscay,” you know you first got out of tune, then you broke down altogether. I have bought the correct copy for you, and, if you’ll allow me, I’ll teach it you. (Sings.) “As we lay, all that day, in the bay—” that’s where you went astray, in the high note—“In the bay—” You must practice it twenty times a day—“Of Biscay, O!”
Nig. You’re very kind, indeed, miss; but this morning, I’ve no time to practice high notes. (Aside.) I must turn them all out by force.
Miss Sky. Well, well, any other day then. I’ve a charming song for you, Mr. Damper, just suited to your deep bass. (Sings.) “While the wolf with nightly prowl”——An excellent song for you—you hate us women, you know; and, as the savage wolf howls at the sweet and silvery moon, so do you rail at us radiant creatures. Ah! good morning, Miss Snare, I’ve not forgotten you either; I’ve picked up an old ditty that will be the very thing for you. (Sings.) “Nobody coming to marry me, nobody coming to woo—wo—o—o—o—woo—o——”
Miss Sna. Insulting creature! (Regards her with every expression of contempt.)
[MISS SKYLARK points out the notes on paper to NIGGLE, who is fidgetting to get away.
Dam. (Aside.) Poor Niggle’s in a hopeful way; one woman wants to teach him to sing “The Bay of Biscay,” and another is continually calling on him with pincushions. I must keep my eye upon him.
Nig. (Aside.) Another ten minutes gone. What shall I do? (Looks at his watch.)
Miss Sky. Oh, what do you think, while I was in the music-shop this morning, I heard such scandal; it seems to be all over the town. I never was so shocked in all my life—and of a lady, too, that we always considered so very correct in her conduct.
Miss Sna. Do you allude to Miss Coy?
Miss Sky. I do.