Mrs. M. Oh, I hope not! I remember now hearing he was going to retire, because his throat was weak, or else he was going into Parliament, or a Retreat, or something or other. But I'm sure, Frank, Althea wouldn't quite like to——
Col. M. Then of course there's no more to be said. I only thought she might be amused, you know.
Alth. But indeed I should, Colonel Merridew, please let us go!
Mrs. M. But, Thea, dear, are you sure you quite understand what the Eldorado is?—it's a music-hall. Of course it's all right, and everyone goes nowadays; but, still, I shouldn't like to take you if there was any chance that your mother might disapprove. You might never be allowed to come to us again.
Alth. (to herself). They're both dying to go, I can see; it's too hateful to feel oneself such a kill-joy! And even Mr. Curphew admitted that a music-hall was no worse than a Penny Reading. (Aloud.) I don't think Mamma would disapprove, Cissie; not more than she would of my going to theatres, and I've been to them, you know!
Col. M. We'd have a box, of course, and only just get there in time to hear Wildfire; we could go away directly afterwards, 'pon my word, Cecilia, I don't see any objection, if Miss Toovey would like to go. Never heard a word against Wildfire's singing, and as for the rest, well, you admitted last time there was no real harm in the thing!
Alth. Do say yes, Cissie. I do want to hear this Walter Wildfire so!
Mrs. M. I'm not at all sure that I ought to say anything of the sort, but there—I'll take the responsibility.
Col. M. Then that's settled. We'll take great care of you, Miss Toovey. I'll just go down to the Rag, Cecilia, and send out to get a box. I'll see if I can find someone to make a fourth, and I daresay we shall manage to amuse ourselves. [He goes out.
Mrs. M. Thea. I really don't feel quite happy about this. I think I'll go after Frank and tell him not to get that box after all; he won't have left the house yet. [She attempts to rise.