Dr. H. That is because all those nice, strong muscles around your waist [Slapping his sides and holding himself very erect with his hands on his ribs] which Nature gave you to hold you up, have been bound down and bandaged and flattened [Emphasizes the words by each time striking his right fist in palm of left hand] until they have no strength in them.
E. Do you suppose, Doctor, if I should dress as you tell me for six months, that I would get my health again?
Dr. H. It would go a long way towards it. You fashionable girls are not good for much, to be sure, but if a doctor gets a chance to save one of you in the way of business, he can't help wishing to do it. So I just give you your choice.
E. Of course I would like to be well, and in the country up there nobody will see me, so it's no matter how I look.
Mamma P. [Comes forward and puts arm about E.] To be sure it's no matter. [Kisses her] Only get your health, my dear, and then we'll see.
CURTAIN.
ACT III.
Mamma Proudie, fearing Emily is exerting herself too much up in the country, calls in Dr. Hardhack to have him send her some word of caution. In room are Grandma P. [Knitting] Mamma P., Aunt Flighty and Dr. H.
Mamma P. I wish you would caution Emily, Doctor. I'm sure she's over-exerting herself, for she has sent home seven pats of butter of her own churning!
Dr. H. Never fear, my dear madam. It's only that there is more iron getting into her blood, that's all. Let her alone, or tell her to do it more yet!