Dunn. Do you think not, sir? For my part I do not see why it should not be.
Smith. Well, er—it was of your feelings I was thinking, Mr. Dunnbrowne, for I know that this event must be a sad and sudden blow to you.
Dunn. Not at all, my dear sir, not at all. (aside) His letter a sad blow to me? Pooh! I look upon it as a very pleasing blow. (drinks and crosses his knee)
Smith. (aside) He speaks of a death as though it were an everyday occurrence in his house.
Dunn. Such things will occur sooner or later in any family, sir. We must expect them.
Smith. Ah, that is true. We never know whose turn is next, but it is a great affliction when parent and daughter are parted in this way, Mr. Dunnbrowne.
Dunn. (cheerfully) Oh dear no. I could not expect her to stay with me always. Besides, we shall not be parted for ever; I can just drop in and see her now and again, you know.
Smith. (aside) Drop in and see her! What does——Oh, I see, he must have a family vault. (aloud) Her loss will be a source of immense grief, sir, I am sure.
Dunn. (in same tone) Why should it be? All young persons are anxious to commence that blissful state of life, for it is generally supposed that they are better off—that is to say, they are much happier. Not that my daughter has ever been unhappy here, but the change will be a pleasing novelty to her, therefore I see no reason why I should be grieved at all.
Smith. (aside) How careless he appears to be about her death, and speaks of the next world as a pleasing novelty. A——h! (draws a long deep sigh)