Punch, Or The London Charivari

ng up his hat in the hall_). Many thanks. (_Wipes his boots._) May I come in? (_Comes in, puts down his stick, sits down, and looks about him._) And how do you and ROSMER get on together, eh?

_Reb._ Ever since your sister, BEATA, went mad and jumped into the mill-race, we have been as happy as two little birds together. (_After a pause, sitting down in arm-chair._) So you don't really mind my living here all alone with ROSMER? We were afraid you might, perhaps.

Kroll. Why, how on earth--on the contrary, I shouldn't object at all if you--(_looks at her meaningly_)--h'm!

_Reb._ (_interrupting, gravely_). For shame, Rector; how can you make such jokes!

Kroll (_as if surprised_). Jokes? We do not joke in these parts--but here is ROSMER.

[Illustration: "Taking off his gloves meaningly."]

[_Enter ROSMER, gently and softly._

Rosmer. So, my dear old friend, you have come again, after a year's absence. (_Sits down._) We almost thought that--

Kroll (_nods_