Plant. It has always been the dream of my life to see you united in matrimony to dear Jack.
Ruby. Cheap Jack! He hasn't a penny!
Plant. Oh hasn't he?—er—(aside) Nearly let it out that time, (to her) I mean should he be clever enough to win my Ruby. my Ruby mine—er—this afternoon, he will be rich beyond the dreams of avarice. Alas, I have no dowry to give you, save the blessing of your dear old—your dear fond, fond father, (kisses her forehead) But only obey me in this, and Lady Fortune will smile on us all—smile—smile.
Ruby. (bursts into tears) I can't smile—I won't! (turns to Pearl)
Pearl. (comes to meet her—aside to her) Of course you won't—I'll get you out of it.
Plant. (angrily) Stop that silly crying. He'll be in soon, and you look a perfect fright with your eyes all red. You've never obeyed me in your life—either of you—but I've made up my mind this time, and damme—I'll make you obey me. I swear that dear cousin Jack shall be my son-in-law. (crosses C.)
Pearl. (going quietly to him, standing between him and Ruby) If such is your determination, I will sacrifice myself.
Plant. (contemptuously) You!
Ruby. (rushing to Pearl) You shan't!
Pearl. I will—what is it after all? Marriages aren't made in heaven now-a-days.