GRITTY. Oh, there’s no secret about it—Florence is engaged to— (Seeing FLORENCE, who enters from house.) Oh! here she comes! And Hetty is going to marry—and here she comes (seeing HETTY, who follows FLORENCE from house).
GRITTY. Come here, my dears! (FLORENCE and HETTY come down). The son of my old partner, Mr. Samuel Skruff. (Introducing.) Mr. Samuel Skruff—my nieces—Miss Florence Halliday, Miss Hetty Halliday. (FLORENCE and HETTY courtesy.)
SKRUFF (bowing). Firm of Skruff & Son, Miss Florence! first-rate business, Miss Hetty! (To FLORENCE.) Our 13s. trousers is a fortune in itself! (To HETTY.) And as to our everlasting wear fabric, which we advertise so extensively, it is simply all plunder! (following HETTY and addressing her apart with much gesticulation, while FLORENCE comes down to GRITTY).
FLOR. Oh! uncle, dear! why do you ask your dreadful tailoring acquaintances here? Do try and get rid of this vulgar little man before Captain Taunton comes, or he’ll think he’s a relation!
[Retires up.
SKRUFF (aside). I’m getting on first-rate (joining FLORENCE, while HETTY comes down).
HETTY (to GRITTY). If this odious creature Skruff stays, you really must let him have his dinner in the kitchen. I dare say he’s used to it, Edward would be perfectly horrified at his vulgarity.
GRITTY. Can’t do that, my dear, but I’ll relieve you of his presence as much as I can! (To SKRUFF.) Now, Samuel, as you’ve made the acquaintance of the ladies, suppose we take a turn round the garden! (taking SKRUFF’S arm).
FLOR. By all means, Mr. Skruff; there’s such a beautiful view of the river from the lawn, Mr. Skruff!