RTON, in dressing-gown, with
candle.

Old Morton. Not abed yet, Alexander? Well, well, I don't blame you, my
son it has been for you a trying, trying night. Yes, I see: like me, you
are a little nervous and wakeful. (Slowly takes chair, and comfortably
composes himself.)

Oakhurst (aside). He is in for a midnight gossip. How shall I dispose of
Sandy?

Old Morton. Yes (meditatively),--yes, you have overworked lately. Never
mind. In a day or two more you shall have a vacation, sir,--a vacation!

Oakhurst (aside). He knows not how truly he speaks. (Aloud.) Yes, sir, I
was still up. I have only just now dismissed the policemen.

Old Morton. Ay. I heard voices, and saw a light in your window. I came
to tell you, Alexander, Capper has explained all about--about the decoy!
More; he has told me of your courage and your invaluable assistance. For
a moment, sir,--I don't mind telling you now in confidence,--I doubted
YOU--

Oakhurst (in feigned deprecation). Oh, sir!

Old Morton. Only for a moment. You will find, Alexander, that even
that doubt shall have full apology when the year of your probation has
expired. Besides, sir. I know all.

Oakhurst (starting). All!

Old Morton. Yes, the story about the Duchess and your child. You are
surprised. Col. Starbottle told me all. I forgive you, Alexander, for
the sake of your boy.

Oakhurst. My boy, sir!

Old Morton. Yes, your boy. And let me tell you, sir, he's a fine young
fellow. Looks like you,--looks as you did when YOU were a boy. He's a
Morton too, every inch of him, there's no denying that. No, sir. You may
have changed; but he--he--is the living image of my little Alexander. He
took to me, too,--lifted his little arms--and--and-- (Becomes affected,
and leans his head in his hands.)

Oakhurst (rising). You are not well, sir. Let me lead you to your room.

Old Morton. No! it is nothing: a glass of water, Alexander!

Oakhurst (aside). He is very pale. The agitation of the night has
overcome him. (Goes to table R.) A little spirits will revive him.
(Pours from decanter in glass, and returns to MORTON.)

Old Morton (after drinking). There was spirits in that water, Alexander.
Five years ago, I vowed at your mother's grave to abandon the use of
intoxicating liquors.

Oakhurst. Believe me, sir, my mother will forgive you.

Old Morton. Doubtless. It has revived me. I am getting to be an old man,
Aleck. (Holds out his glass half-unconsciously, and OAKHURST replenish