_E._ No, but on that very account people should have borne with me more than they have! (_Still with feeling._) Things might have been different. _H._ (_going toward her_). Esther! (_A bell._) _E._ (_hurriedly_). Never mind! There is the door-bell! Things are going to be different! (_With a faint smile._) I told you he did not like any sweet at all in his. _H._ (_impetuously_). And have I not had my full allowance of bitter? It is time you began dispensing sweets—so let him stay away. _E._ (_laughing nervously_). But—but it wasn’t my idea to get rid of him. _H._ The plan is ready for your acceptance. You were going to tell me you were engaged to-morrow—tell him so to-day, instead! _E._ (_glancing at clock_). I cannot. His engagement was made with me a week ago. _H._ And mine five years ago. (_She hesitates._) Besides, he is late—half an hour late. What is it about a lover who is late? He has divided his time into more than “the thousandth part of a minute.” _E._ (_laughing_). And are you not later—by four years? _H._ (_firmly_). I am twenty-four hours ahead of time. _A knock. Enter maid with a card._ _E._ Show him into the reception-room. I will come in a moment. (_Exit maid._) It is he, Harold. I must go. _H._ (_taking her hands_). Esther, think one moment. Forget the four years. I have come a day too soon. I have swallowed two cups of tea and eight lumps of sugar and made a general ass of myself—but—I love you. _E._ But—but this is so shameless! I thought I should have to say—something like that—to him. _H._ (_coolly_). And I am in time to save you from so unfortunate a mistake. You had much better tell it to me. _E._ But I must give him an answer. _H._ Give me one first! Adopt my plan, it is so simple. Send word—or tell him, if you like—that you are engaged. But come back! _E._ Indeed, he shall have his answer first. His right demands precedence at least. But (_opening the door_) I will come back. _H._ To five years ago? _E._ Perhaps. (_Returns just as she is leaving the room._) But, Harold, Harold, I thought an afternoon tea was so safe, or I should _never_ have asked you. _H._ And so did I—or I should never have come. CURTAIN. [Illustration: [Couple]] THE COMMONEST POSSIBLE STORY BY BLISS PERRY [Illustration: [Flowers]]