(They carry Mrs. Watmuff into cupboard, and close the door on her.)
Mr. W. And now come, Ferdinand, and give me a light in the cellar.
(Exit Ferdinand Swift and Mr. Watmuff, door R.)
Mrs. W. (appearing at door of cupboard). Varlets! Varlets! I say. Oh, that the spirits of my parents should witness this day! For some wives it is ordained that their husbands shall, so to speak, fly in their faces,—my most miserable husband has smoked in mine! Bitterly shall he rue it. My thanks are indeed due to that worthy young man, whom I fear I have misjudged, who apprised me of my danger; otherwise I might now be a stark and frozen body. By keeping open the door of this cupboard I can hear all that goes on, and I shall be an interested witness of the junketings which will now take place. (Retires into cupboard.)
Walter (appearing cautiously from behind screen). Fortune favors me. This is glorious! She already thinks she has misjudged me. Emily, my darling, I foresee that you will be mine. (Crosses and goes off, door L.)
(Enter, door R., Mr. Watmuff, and Ferdinand Swift, each carrying a decanter of wine; both are smoking.)
Mr. W. Aha! The coast is clear.
Fer. (filling a glass of wine and "eying" it). And so is the wine. (Drinks.)
Mr. W. Put the bottles on this table, Ferdinand, and bring two chairs. Now we will try and make the best of things until we have your dear aunt with us again. (Drinks.) It is a good glass of wine,—isn't it, Ferdinand?
Fer. Excellent. Does every credit to your judgment.