But, Col. Starbottle--
Starbottle. Permit me to say, sir, that I hold myself for this,
sir, responsible, sir,--personally responsible.
[Exit STARBOTTLE, glancing furiously at SANDY, who sinks on sofa
laughing.
Oakhurst (aside). He will change his mind in half an hour. But,
in the mean time, time is precious. (Aloud.) Sandy, come!
Sandy (rising with alacrity). Yes, Jack, I'm ready.
Oakhurst. We are going (slowly and solemnly)--we are going to see
your father.
Sandy (dropping back with bashful embarrassment, and struggling to
release his arm from OAKHURST). No, Jack! Not just yet, Jack; in
a little while, ole boy! in about six months, or mebbe--a year,
Jack! not now, not now! I ain't feelin' exactly well, Jack,--I
ain't.
Oakhurst. Nonsense, Sandy! Consider your duty and my honor.
Sandy (regaining his seat). That's all very well, Jack; but ye
see, pard, you've known the old man for nigh on a year, and it's
twenty-five since I met him. No, Jack; you don't play any ole man
on to me to-night, Jack. No, you and me'll just drop out for a
pasear. Jack, eh? (Taking OAKHURST'S arm.) Come!
Oakhurst. Impossible! Hush! (Listening.) It is HE passing
through the corridor. (Goes to wing R., and listens.)
Sandy (crowding hastily behind OAKHURST in alarm). But, I say,
Jack! he won't come in here? He's goin' to bed, you know. Eh? It
ain't right for a man o' his years--and he must be goin' on ninety,
Jack--to be up like this.
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