Han. O Firebrands of genius, don’t make it any hotter than it is!
1st Crier. Only ten sen! Any buy?
[Hiti gives long-drawn sigh of exasperation:
Tee-Pee pats his back soothingly.
Tee. There, there, Hiti, cheer up! It will soon be over. The Feast of Lanterns begins at noon. Then, on the auspicious stroke, we shut up shop. Mr. Yunglangtsi, how does your august Serenity bear the inconsiderateness of this piffling heat?
Lil. Hush! Don’t speak to him! He’s inspired!
Tee. I see—as usual! This inspiration is becoming permanent!
Lil. It is the incubation of the Event, Tee-Pee!
Hiti.
Trust what the starry Oracles foretell:
Wait till the chicken taps upon the shell.