(Exit Mrs. Skinflint from one door, R., while Mrs. Hobbs dashes out from another, R. Curtain falls.)
MRS. GRUNDY’S TYRANNY.
CHARACTERS.
| Mr. Charles Goodenow, | ⎫ | Merchants. |
| Mr. Edward Henderson, | ⎬ | |
| Mr. Frank Burley, | ⎭ | |
| Mrs. Burley, | Mr. Burley’s Wife. | |
| Mrs. Stockbridge, | ⎫ | Mrs. Burley’s Friends. |
| Mrs. Wheeler, | ⎭ | |
| James, | A Customer. | |
| Bridget Murphy, | ⎫ | Owners of Fruit Stands. |
| Kate O’Callahan, | ⎭ |
Scene I.—Charles Goodenow, R., sits in a chair, tipped back, gazing thoughtfully into the upper distance. His head rests upon his hands which are clasped behind it. Enter Frank Burley, L.
Frank. Hallo, Charlie. In the land of dreams? If so I won’t disturb you.
Charles (not answering immediately). Not exactly dreaming. There was too much reality about my thoughts for that. But sit down, Frank.
F. (sitting down). And what were you thinking about, if I am allowed to ask?
C. I was thinking what slaves we were to Fashion and Mrs. Grundy. I don’t know of one of my acquaintances who would have courage enough to do anything which would conflict with the usages of so-called good society.
F. Don’t include me in that category. I have too much independence to be subject to the dictation of others.