CHARLES. [Weakly endeavoring to comprehend.] A diabolical circle—but what!—say it again, Betty.
BETTY. [Repeats slowly, emphasizing it with pointed finger.] A diabolical circle for the devil to daunce in.
CHARLES. [Throws back his head and laughs.] May I be the devil!
BETTY. [Shaking her finger at him.] Then daunce!
[They take position, as though for a minuet. The knocker sounds. Betty runs to the window.
BETTY. Aye, there's Adonijah at the knocker. Into the clock—hie thee—quick, quick!
CHARLES. [Reproachfully.] And would'st thou incarcerate me through the ages? [Turns to the clock.] O timely sarcophagus!
[Charles is smuggled into the clock, and Betty has barely enough time to make a dash for the hat and conceal it behind her before the door opens and in stalks Adonijah. He looks about suspiciously. Betty faces him with the hat held behind her. He removes his hat and tippet and lays them on the table.
ADONIJAH. Methought I heard a sound of many feet.
BETTY. [Looking down.] Two feet have I; no more, no less.