ere's--there's no hurry! _(crosses L. to
Ruby)_

Ruby. _(bringing Andrew down)_ Pa, this is--Andrew!

Andrew. Mr. Plant--I----

Plant. Don't speak, sir--I know what you're going to say!

Andrew. Does he?

Plant. _(taking Ruby in his other arm, and hugging the two girls
closely)_ Another thief--after my precious Jewels! _(aside to
Ruby)_ Has he got any money?

Ruby. _(aside to Plant)_ Lots!

Plant. _(aside)_ Good! _(aloud)_ You're breaking my heart,
gentlemen, but I mustn't be selfish. Take my precious jewels--and
wear them! I wonder if it would run to a dinner? _(counts his
money)_ No! a lunch! Come to lunch to-morrow, both of you.

Aurora. _(off)_ Jack!

_(Enter Aurora. Doctor sees her, and ducks behind curtains
C. hiding from her; she crosses to door R. I. E., and taps
gently--no answer.)_

Jack! Where's my Jack?

Plant. _(looking at Ruby and Pearl)_ Ah, two dear girls who have
never caused me a moment's uneasiness all their blameless lives.

Aurora. Ho! then it's all to come, for they told me as their pa
'ad set 'is 'eart on their marrying the dear doctor.

Plant. How dare you! My daughters are Doctor Sheppard's cousins,
and nothing would induce me to sanction a marriage between
cousins, _(going to her)_ You're a very naughty little girl.

Aurora. _(haughtily, seating herself and spreading her frock
out)_ Little girl! Pardon me, my good man--do you know who
you're talking to? You don't know: my position in this 'ouse. I'm
auntie's choice.

Plant. Are you? You're not _mine!_

Aurora. Yes! She's chosen me to marry the dear doctor!

_(Ruby and Pearl laugh.)_

Let them laugh as wins. You tried your best, but I don't bear no
h'ill-will. I said I'd struggle with yer, and I've done it. If
you're good girls, I may ask you to be bridesmaids--it's better
than nothing, _(crosses L. C.)_

Plant. _(to Doctor under table)_ I say, Jack, is this true? You
have my deepest sympathy--and if it should come to a breach of
promise--look me up!

Doctor. _(coming out)_ If ever I do look you and your precious
jewels up, I'll bring a stick twice as big as yours.

Plant. And that is gratitude!

_(Enter Flo. and Aunt--they listen.)_

Ruby. _(hotly)_ I don't care _who_ marries Jack!

Pearl. Nor I--he's not _my_ style!

Aunt. _(to Doctor)_ This dear girl has told me all about
you--forgive me for my mistakes, but they weren't all my
fault--_(shaking her finger at Andrew)_ I hope you'll have a very
happy married