GENTLEMAN (looking at paper, and then giving way to a loud laugh). Ha, ha, ha! Why, my dear madam, this is quite an old story! Our interesting friend, Mr. Burkshaw, happened to be shot in attempting his escape from Dartmoor more than twelve months ago! (Looking at date of newspaper.) Of course, this paper is a year old—December, 1884!
LADY. So it is! Oh, sir! what must you think of me?
GENTLEMAN (in a tender tone). May I tell you? That you are the most charming travelling companion— (Here noise of train stopping, engine, railway-whistle, etc., heard.)
VOICE (outside). Paddington! Paddington! (LADY and GENTLEMAN both rise.)
GENTLEMAN (gallantly). I am staying some time in London, madam. Will you permit me to call upon you, if only to remove from your mind any lingering doubt as to my perfect identity?
LADY. With pleasure, sir! (Suddenly, and in a very gracious tone.) Oh, sir! how very good of you to be a Government inspector of prisons! (holding out her hand to GENTLEMAN, who takes it and raises it to his lips).
VOICE (again heard). Paddington! (The GENTLEMAN and LADY gather their packages and bow to each other as the CURTAIN FALLS.)
[TAKEN FROM THE FRENCH.]
An Original Comedietta, in One Act.