M. (smiling). I’ve tried to. But don’t you like it?
J. No, I don’t; that’s a fact.
M. Well, then, if you’ll agree not to do so again, I’ll straighten up the room; but if you have a relapse, mind, I shall have one, too.
J. Oh, I shan’t; don’t fear. If I’m in danger of it, the recollection of this scene will bring me back to the paths of rectitude.
E. (coming forward, and bowing with mock deference). I congratulate you, on the success of your scheme, Mrs. Marden, and have no doubt it will prove efficacious. It is worth a dozen scoldings, and is a far more agreeable remedy.
J. (exultantly). I rather think it touches you a little, old fellow, too, judging from the appearance of your bachelor apartments when I have called there.
E. I am sure of that, and have taken a part of it to myself already. When next you come to my rooms, you will, without doubt, be struck with the transformation, and will perceive at once, that I, as well as yourself have profited by Mrs. Marden’s lesson.
(Curtain falls.)