Mrs. G. I wish—I wish so much that I could really help you. I believe I could—if I left the room. But that's not what I mean.
Capt. G. (Aside.) Give me patience! I wish she would go. (Aloud.) I assure you you can't do anything for me, Minnie, and I must really settle down to this. Where's my pouch?
Mrs. G. (Crossing to writing-table.) Here you are, Bear. What a mess you keep your table in!
Capt. G. Don' ttouch it. There's a method in my madness, though you mightn't think of it.
Mrs. G. (At table.) I want to look—Do you keep accounts, Pip?
Capt. G. (Bending over saddlery.) Of a sort. Are you rummaging among the Troop papers? Be careful.
Mrs. G. Why? I sha'n't disturb anything. Good gracious! I had no idea that you had anything to do with so many sick horses.
Capt. G. 'Wish I hadn't, but they insist on falling sick. Minnie, if 1 were you I really should not investigate those papers. You may come across something that you won't like.
Mrs. G. Why will you always treat me like a child? I know I'm not displacing the horrid things.
Capt. G. (Resignedly.) Very well, then. Don't blame me if anything happens. Play with the table and let me go on with the saddlery. (Slipping hand into trousers-pocket.) Oh, the deuce!