All. (But MISS MACAW.) Noble! noble!
Dam. You wonder what we can see in each other, don’t you? Never mind—though we don’t begin by thinking that we can’t live asunder, we may not find out, as you will, that it is impossible to live together. We are united but for one object, to worry one another; and if we fail in that object, perhaps we may be the happiest couple amongst you.
Miss Mac. Nothing can annoy me but one question; and that is being asked my age!
Miss Mea. Did he ever dare to put that question to you?
Miss Mac. He did.
All. Oh, shame!
Dam. Well, well, never mind, Miss Macaw—the older you grow, the more your beauties will become developed. You are like the great American Aloe, by the time you’re a hundred years old, you’ll be in full bloom! eh? Ha! ha! Now, down on our knees, poor wretches that we are!
[All the gentlemen drop on one knee to their respective ladies.
Dam. Now—now for the mystery—now for the lady of the house! Where is she?
Miss Mea. Here, sir!