The Cabinet Minister Part 60

LADY TWOMBLEY.

Do you? So do we. We'll give you a lift. Come on! [They all hurry out.]

END OF THE THIRD ACT.

THE FOURTH ACT.

DANCING.

The scene is still the inner hall of Drumdurris Castle, now brilliantly lighted and florally decorated, the evening after the events of the previous act.

Waltz-music is heard, then a slight scream, and LEBANON, in full Highland costume, enters hastily.

MR. JOSEPH LEBANON.

I wouldn't 'ave 'ad it 'appen for 'alf a sovereign.

[THE MUNKITTRICK, a fiery old gentleman in Highland dress, enters.]

THE MUNKITTRICK.

Sir, I am most indignant!

MR. JOSEPH LEBANON.

I've explained. I felt myself goin' and I caught at what came nearest.

THE MUNKITTRICK.

My daughter came nearest.

MR. JOSEPH LEBANON.

I know. Don't make such a fuss about it! Do remember we're at a ball!

THE MUNKITTRICK.

Miss Munkittrick is torn to ribbons.

MR. JOSEPH LEBANON.

All right. Make light of it--make light of it, like I do.

THE MUNKITTRICK.

Ah-h-h!

[DRUMDURRIS, in Highland dress, enters with MISS MUNKITTRICK, who is much discomposed, and EGIDIA, who is soothing her.]

EARL OF DRUMDURRIS.

[To MUNKITTRICK.] My dear sir!

MISS MUNKITTRICK.

Papa!

EGIDIA.

Oh, Flora, Flora!

THE MUNKITTRICK.

Lord Drumdurris!

MR. JOSEPH LEBANON.

Let it blow over. We're all forgettin' we're at a ball.

THE MUNKITTRICK.

Miss Munkittrick has been rolled upon the floor.

MR. JOSEPH LEBANON.

She was pa.s.sin' at the time--I didn't select her. Don't be so conceited!

[LEBANON continues to explain. MUNKITTRICK is indignant; DRUMDURRIS endeavors to soothe him. BROOKE enters carrying a satin shoe, which he presents to MISS MUNKITTRICK.]

BROOKE TWOMBLEY.

Awfully sorry--what? [BROOKE hurries out.]

MISS MUNKITTRICK.

Where is papa?

[IMOGEN enters, carrying an aigrette.]

IMOGEN.

Oh, Miss Munkittrick, what a shocking mishap!