_Peter._ I will not now reproach you, EMILY, nor would I dwell upon my wounded sole, the pain of which increases momently. I part from you in friendship, and in proof, that fated instrument I leave with you (_presenting her with the pin, which she accepts mechanically_) which the frail link between us twain has severed. I can dispense with it, for in my cuff (_shows her his coat-cuff, in which a row of pins'-heads is perceptible_) I carry others 'gainst a time of need. My poor success in life I trace to this--that never yet I passed a pin unheeded. _Emily._ And is that all you have to say to me? _Peter._ I think so--save that I shall wish you well, and pray that henceforth you may bear in mind what vast importance lies in seeming trifles. _Emily_ (_with a pale smile_). PETER, your lesson is already learned, for precious has this pin become for me, since by its aid I gain oblivion--thus! [_Stabs herself._ _Peter_ (_coldly_). Nay, these are histrionics, EMILY. [_Assists her to sofa._ _Emily._ I'd skill enough to find a vital spot. Do not withdraw it yet--my time is short, and I have much to say before I die. (_Faintly._) Be gentle with my rabbits when I'm gone; give my canary chickweed now and then.... I think there is no more--ah, one last word--(_warmly_)--warn them they must not cut our wedding-cake, and then the pastrycook may take it back! _Peter_ (_deeply moved_). Would you had shown this thoughtfulness before! [_Kneels by the sofa._ _Emily._ 'Tis now too late, and clearly do I see that I was never worthy of you, PETER. _Peter_ (_gently_). 'Tis not for me to contradict you now. You did your best to be so, EMILY! _Emily._ A blessing on you for those generous words! Now tell me, PETER, how is your poor foot? _Peter._ The agony decidedly abates, and I can bear a boot again. _Emily._ Then I die happy!... Kiss me, PETER ... ah! [_Dies._ _Peter._ In peace she passed away. I'm glad of that, although that peace was purchased by a lie. I shall not bear a boot for many days! Thus ends our wedding morn, and she, poor child, has paid the penalty of heedlessness! [_Curtain falls, whereupon, unless Mr. Punch is greatly mistaken, there will not be a dry eye in the house._ * * * * * NOTICE.--Rejected Communications or Contributions, whether MS., Printed Matter, Drawings, or Pictures of any description, will in no case be returned, not even when accompanied by a Stamped and Addressed Envelope, Cover, or Wrapper. To this rule there will be no exception.