Fred. So I have often heard you say. And that reminds me to mention a matter, upon which I have long desired to talk to you——
Mr. S. (interrupting). I am free to admit that I am proud of my ancestry.
Fred. My dear father, the safe-keeping of their honor is my dearest aim. And, talking of my ancestors’ honor, reminds me——
Mr. S. (interrupting). If Caius Smaileius heard that one of his race was about to marry, for instance, into a tainted family, I believe the doughty old Roman would turn in his tumulus!
Fred. What you say about a tainted family is so true, that I venture——
Mr. S. My dear Fred, it’s no use beating about the bush. The girl you are engaged to—as good a girl as ever lived, is (there is no use in disguising it) a member of a tainted family. (Fred turns from Smailey.) It is therefore my duty to urge upon you, as the last of our line, the propriety, the necessity, of releasing Eve from her engagement. (Frederick appears hurt and indignant.) I know I am asking much, very much, of you. I know how tenderly you love the girl; but a flaw, my dear Fred, and you a Smailey! My boy, it is impossible.
Fred. (in affected indignation). Am I to understand that you require me to surrender my darling Eve. Never! With all possible respect for your authority—Never!
Mr. S. But, Fred, remember, my boy, remember, her mother has committed a faux pas of some kind.
Fred. It would certainly seem so; but I have given my word, and it is my duty to keep it.
Mr. S. What is duty to the living compared with duty to the dead. Think what your ancestors have done for you. And are we to neglect our duty to them, because they can do no more for us? Oh! shame, shame!