Mrs. P. I have long loved you, and have felt certain that I was not disagreeable to you—and, knowing your timidity, I have availed myself of the privileges of Leap Year to come and offer myself to you. (Rises and throws her arms around his neck.) Hiram, I love you,—do you reciprocate my affection?
Mr. B. (almost overpowered, and looking around, nervously). I—I—must take time to think of it—it is so sudden.
Mrs. P. It may be sudden—and yet why delay our happiness? (Her head droops on his shoulder.)
Mr. B. I—I need time to consider (a sound of approaching footsteps is heard)—I—I must go—let me go. I have an engagement at nine.
Mrs. P. Then give your consent to our marriage.
Mr. B. (struggling frantically to free himself). I cannot—I—(a sound is heard as of a person at the door). Let me go—let me go—(in an imploring tone) quick—somebody’s coming.
Mrs. P. Say yes, then, dearest Hiram.
Mr. B. (in an agony of fear). Yes, yes—anything, if you will only leave me. (Mrs. P. imprints an audible kiss upon his forehead and turns to leave the room. Apparently by mistake she grasps the bell-knob and pulls it vigorously. She goes out by one door, L., as servant enters by another, R.)
Servant. Did you ring, sir?
Mr. B. Ring? N—no. I don’t wish for anything.