It ain't healthy.
Oakhurst. You know him not. He seems to need no rest (sadly).
Night after night, long after the servants are abed, and the house
is still, I hear that step slowly pacing the corridor. It is the
last sound as I close my eyes, the first challenge of the morning.
Sandy. The ol' scound--(checking himself)--I mean, Jack, the ol'
man has suthin' on his mind. But, Jack (in great alarm), he don't
waltz in upon ye, Jack? He don't p'int them feet in yer, Jack? Ye
ain't got to put up with that, Jack, along o' yer other trials?
Oakhurst. He often seeks me here. Ah--yes--he is coming this way
now.
Sandy (in ludicrous terror). Jack, pard, quick I hide me
somewhere, Jack!
Oakhurst (opening door R.). In there, quick! Not a sound, as you
value your future! [Exit SANDY hurriedly R.
SCENE 2.--The same. Enter door R., OLD MORTON, 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.
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