Pearl. Oh, let me read it!
(They read it together.)
Plant. (aside) A thousand a year for an unbusinesslike young fool, and here am I, her own cousin's husband, and she's never given me a penny, except what I've borrowed. (Bus. with pocket hairbrush, mirror at back) I did think my chance had come when she sent for me to Cumberland. I got the hair-dresser to touch out all the grey ones, thinking I might fetch the old girl, but as soon as she saw me she was very rude, called me a fright, and began asking some damned awkward questions about my late wife's trust money. Just my luck! (sits at writing table)
Pearl. (reading from letter which Ruby holds) "And, my darling Ruby—if your father dies"—there's not much "if" about it. He does. (taps her hair) I've seen the bottle.
(Both giggle.)
Plant. (aside, looking in pocket mirror) So I took the next train back to Southsea, and romped my daughters up to town. If Ruby can only hook the doctor before the aunt arrives, I'm saved—if she can't—I'm—ahem!
Ruby. (aside to Pearl) And only think, Pearl. when he's an Admiral, I shall be Lady Merry—perhaps a Duchess!
Pearl. But, father——
Ruby. Oh, he'll be delighted. We're keeping it as a surprise for his birthday.
Pearl. He'll be 63 next birthday—he looks more like 36.