MRS. M. (_L., detaining him_) You’re surely not going out in your dressing gown? MOUS. Eh? yes--it is my dressing gown, I declare. On second thoughts, I really don’t see why I should interfere between these Joneses. (_places hat and umbrella on the table_) I’d rather by half stop with you, my ’Stasy. CRUM. Nonsense. You must go. Mrs. Major-General Jones expects you. (_taking hold of one of the sleeves of the dressing gown_) MRS. M. (_taking hold of the other_) Of course--Mrs. Jones expects you. CRUM. You wouldn’t keep a young and pretty woman waiting? (_handing him his coat_) MOUS. Oh, she’s young and pretty, is she? You hear, ’Stasia--she’s young and pretty. (_puts on coat_) You expose me to her fascinations, ’Stasia---- MRS. M. (_smiling_) I’m not at all afraid. MOUS. And why--why are you not afraid? Because, as you must have observed, you no sooner set your foot on the ground than I instantly commence adoring the bit of ground you set your foot on. MRS. M. (_with impatience_) Yes, yes--but make haste. And you can join me at my sister Charlotte’s. You know we drink tea there this evening---- MOUS. Yes, at eight o’clock. But it isn’t five yet. MRS. M. What of that? I promised her to come early--she’s teaching me a new pattern in knitting. MOUS. Yes, I heard her the other day. She was telling you to drop one, and then take up two. She didn’t say what, but I must say I was rather surprised at her requesting you to “turn over twice”--especially so soon after dinner. MRS. M. Ha, ha, ha! Good-bye--for I’m in a hurry to dress. MOUS. (_detaining her_) One fond embrace before we part! (_kisses her_) Keep up your spirits in my absence. (_going--stops_) Another fond embrace before we part! MRS. M. (_with evident impatience_) Psha! (_MOUSER going again_) You’ll not forget the message about the veil---- MOUS. Certainly not. (_going--stops_) Another fond embrace before---- CRUM. Go along! (_pushes him out, L. D. F._) Well, coz, you certainly may say you’ve got the most attentive husband in the world. MRS. M. Too attentive by half! CRUM. Eh? MRS. M. (_seriously_) Yes, cousin. Few women are proof against ridicule--and some husbands would do well to remember that there is a point when attention to a wife becomes a burden, and even affection a persecution. Yes, yes, cousin--he’s too attentive by half! _Exit, L. D._