MRS. C. Help!
Enter MAIDSERVANT, running, R.
Oh, Susan! (running to her)
WOOD. Oh, that’s Susan, is it? Lovely Susan! embrace your Woodcock! (rushes with open arms at SUSAN, who, alarmed, rushes out screaming)
MRS. C. (clasping her hands) And this is my work!
WOOD. Yes, you’ve done it Carver! never mind; don’t cry, old girl! (throwing his arm round MRS. CARVER’S neck)
MRS. C. Oh, Marmy, Marmy, if you’ve any love for Caroline, leave this wicked, abominable, detestable town this very morning by the very first train, and go back to Stow-on-the-Wold—I implore! I entreat you!
WOOD. (after a pretended struggle with himself, then smiling benignantly) Carver, your tears have conquered! do with me as you will. (throws himself into her arms and makes a wry face over her shoulder, then looking towards L.) Swansdown! what the deuce can he want? (retiring to back as SWANSDOWN enters, L.)
SWANS. (as he enters) It’s all right, Woodcock—— (seeing MRS. CARVER) Madam—I——
MRS. C. Mr. Swansdown, I know all; your duel with my unhappy son-in-law——