M. (looking up surprised). In what way?
A. R. I haven’t fully matured a plan yet, but we will open the campaign to-night, and, my word for it, if you follow my directions, you will come off victorious.
M. I am filled with curiosity to know how it is all to come about.
Servant (entering, R.) A littir for you, ma’am. (Passes letter to M. and exit, R. Mary reads the letter.)
M. It is a line from John, saying that he will bring his friend, Mr. Hastings, home to dine with us. I suppose he thought it possible I might be out.
A. R. What kind of a man is Mr. Hastings?
M. Very pleasant indeed, and as fond of a good joke as any one I know of. He and John are great friends.
A. R. Then it will be just the time for us to open the campaign.
M. You have it all arranged, then?
A. R. Yes; draw your chair this way, and I will explain it to you. (Mary moves near A. R.)