Horace. Very likely. Very likely. Did one go by?
Bella. Yes, sir—and I was half dozing, and——
Horace. You must have been dreaming, Bella. That’s very wrong. You shouldn’t. It’s a bad habit to get into. However, as you are sleepy you needn’t wait up. I shan’t sleep again. I mean I don’t think I shall feel like going to sleep at all.
Bella. (Aside) As if I didn’t see him asleep. I think I would like to go to bed, sir, if you think Miss Minnie won’t want anything. They can’t be long now, sir.
Horace. No. You go to bed. By the way, did you fill the lamp?
Bella. Yes, sir, and made up the fire, and brought you in your “Extra.”
Horace. Extra? (Almost reeling with nervousness.)
Bella. Yes, sir, I put it on the table. Oh, sir, are you ill?
Horace. Ill? No. What an idea!
Bella. You were so—so busy, sir, when I came in with the oil, I didn’t like to wa—— to disturb you, sir. Good night, sir.