She puts her book upon the table, and leans her head upon her arm as if to read book; perceives letter.
Luc. Why, here’s somebody’s letter! (Takes it up, coming down front.) Not very ladylike to read it, I suppose; but all women are curious. Seems to be unfinished. Of course it’s very wrong to read this letter (reads),—
“My dear George,—As I quite anticipated on my return from home, the Government appointment I expected has been given to another. Pardon me, if on receiving this intelligence, I quitted London without bidding you adieu—and as it seems”—
This is really too bad of me,—
“that I am too lazy to do any thing, as you all of you always said”—
[Pausing.
What on earth does that mean? I should much like to see the author (reading again from letter),—
“I intend as soon as I have realized what property I have, to go to Baden, and once more try my luck at the tables. If I win, I shall found a hospital; and if I lose—well, in that case, the only thing I can see for me to do is to join my mother.”
[Finishing reading letter.
That’s all; this gentleman has got no further, or else he has taken away the end of it.