Mrs. C. Come back, Virginia, you must see your uncle. Edgar, won’t you wait and meet him?
Poe. Thank you aunt, but I don’t think it would give him any pleasure. (Exit)
Vir. (Coming back reluctantly) O mama, we will make him happy!
Mrs. C. We ’ll try, my dear. But you must get ready for the picnic. The girls will be here soon. Is Edgar going with you?
Vir. No, mother. He said he would go to a picnic only with nymphs and naiads.
Mrs. C. Here is uncle.
(Enter, from the road, Nelson Clemm)
Mr. C. How d’ do, Maria! Howdy, girl! Go get your hat.
Mrs. C. What now, Nelson?
Mr. C. Nothin’. Only I ’m tired o’ foolin’ and talkin’ about that girl’s education. I ’ve come to take her this time.