Mereston.

I wouldn't, if I were you.

Maid.

If her ladyship anticipates a tragic situation, I would venture to recommend it. A really pathetic scene is impossible without a quantity of hair worn quite high on the head.

Lady Frederick.

Oh, I know. Whenever I want to soften the hard heart of a creditor I clap on every bit I've got. But I don't think I will to-day. I'll tell you what, a temple curl would just fit the case.

Maid.

Then her ladyship inclines to comedy. Very well, I say no more.

[Lady Frederick takes two temple-curls from
the drawer.

Lady Frederick.