Dr. Herd. Poisons? Why in the world should they be that?
Hilda (without answering him). All the thrillingest, deadliest poisons—it is only such things that are wholesome, nowadays.
Dr. Herd. (as if caught by her enthusiasm). And I could colour them, too, by exposing them to rays cast through a prism. Oh, Hilda, how I have needed you all these years! For, you see, with her it was impossible to discuss such things. [Embraces her.
Mrs. Herd. (enters noiselessly through hall-door). I suppose, Haustus, you are persuading Miss Wangel to start by the afternoon steamer? I have bought her a pair of curling-tongs, and a packet of hair-pins. The larger parcels are coming on presently.
Dr. Herd. (uneasily). H'm! Hilda—Miss Wangel I should say—is kindly going to stay on a little longer, to assist me in some scientific experiments. You wouldn't understand them if I told you.
Mrs. Herd. Shouldn't I, Haustus? I daresay not.
[The New Book-keeper looks through the glass-door of Dispensary.
Hilda (starts violently and points—then in a whisper). Who is that?
Dr. Herd. Only the New Book-keeper and Assistant—a very intelligent person.
Hilda (looks straight in front of her with a far-away expression, and whispers to herself). I thought at first it was.... But no—that would be too frightfully thrilling!