Scene II.—The same. Aunt P., R., knitting. Clara, C., sitting idly, with book in her hand.
A. P. Didn’t you hear the bell just now, Clara?
C. Yes, I am expecting a friend here to-night. Ah (rising as Ernest Montgomery enters, L.), good-evening, Ernest.
Ernest Montgomery. Good-evening. You were expecting me, I suppose.
C. Of course I was. I always remember appointments. But I suppose I must introduce you to my aunt. (In a loud tone:) Aunt Patience, this is Mr. Montgomery.
A. P. (extending her hand to the young man). I am very glad to see him.
C. (to E. M.). We shan’t need to take any further notice of her. She’s deaf as an adder, and can’t hear a word without her trumpet unless we scream at her. I believe you never saw her before.
E. M. No.
C. She isn’t very handsome, is she?
E. M. Aren’t you afraid she’ll hear you?