Burl. Three quarters of an hour to dress, and an hour and three quarters to tie my cravat. I think I shall have to get one of those nice store cravats that come all tied, and strap on with a buckle.
Hud. Yes, get a pretty satin one with pink rose-buds on it. Oh, I shouldn't be surprised to see you turn up in anything. [Putting on hat and overcoat.] I tell you what it is, Ned, if you continue to shun all feminine society you will soon become an unmitigated boor.
Burl. I am at college, thanks, and prefer it. I shall have plenty of time to take up feminine society, as you call it, after I graduate.
Hud. You will be a cub, and society won't take you up. Now, old man, it is awfully good of you to come in on my account to-night, so don't back out,—and make yourself look as much like a gentleman as you can. Come in as early as possible. [Exit Hudson.]
Burl. [sol.]. Why the deuce does a fellow want to go chasing into Boston, when he has only four years of this sort of thing. Steve does not half appreciate college. However, I suppose if his family [Taking photograph from table] is going to be there, I ought to go in. It is only decent. [To photograph.] So, Miss Hudson, you and I are going to meet, eh? Oh, what a fool you will think me! Now, if I could only look at you without trying to talk. Steve is right, though; I ought to cure myself of this fool shyness and awkwardness before the other sex, or I deserve to be called an ill-bred cub.
[Knock at hall door.]
Come in! [Puts down photograph hastily.]
[Enter Jack Randolph in long coat and rubber boots.]
Randolph. Hullo, Ned! Did I leave my umbrella in here the other day?
Burl. It is a pretty good one, isn't it? No, I guess I haven't seen it.