Dr. Truly, I ought not to repine. The portal sometimes creaketh, but it hangs—it hangs.
Alma. (aside) It ought to!
Re-enter Ned through window, with Sir Humphrey on his arm, down C.
Dr. Bless my soul—if I may be permitted so strong an expression——
Alma. You may—you may. It’s quite a relief to hear a little bad language.
Dr. Is that you, Sir Humphrey?
Sir H. Yes, doctor. I’ve made friends with Ned again. I said I wouldn’t, but there are some words it’s better to break than to keep. A son may afford to quarrel with his father, but a father cannot afford to quarrel with his son, especially when he’s the only one.
Ned. I was to blame.
Sir H. We won’t go into that. Perhaps there were faults on both sides. I was a selfish, obstinate old man, who thought of nothing but his own plans and his own ambitions. (taking Alma’s hand) It was you, Mrs. Blake, who taught me that my son, whatever he may do, is still my son, and that my daughter is my daughter, be she who she may. Where is your wife, Ned?
Dr. Hem! Mrs. Chetwynd is indisposed.