JULIA.—And you were always our best friend, Captain Touchit. When our misfortunes came, you got me this situation with Mrs. Milliken—and, and—don't you see?—
TOUCHIT.—Well—what?
JULIA [laughing].—I think it is best, under the circumstances, that the ladies here should suppose I am engaged to be married—or or, they might be—might be jealous, you understand. Women are sometimes jealous of others,—especially mothers and mothers-in-law.
TOUCHIT.—Oh, you arch schemer! And it is for that you cover up that beautiful hair of yours, and wear that demure cap?
JULIA [slyly].—I am subject to rheumatism in the head, Captain Touchit.
TOUCHIT.—It is for that you put on the spectacles, and make yourself look a hundred years old?
JULIA.—My eyes are weak, Captain Touchit.
TOUCHIT.—Weak with weeping for Tom Flight. You hypocrite! Show me your eyes!
MISS P.—Nonsense!
TOUCHIT.—Show me your eyes, I say, or I'll tell about Tom Flight and that he has been married at Madras these two years.