Spruce How can they suspect you? For twenty years, they've thought you dead, and never, no matter how hard they try, can they figure the situation out. Captain It's a pleasant adventure, and keeps me in good humor. But look--my father-in-law's coming. Let's carry on the sport. Accost him immediately. (Enter Sir George Hastings) Spruce Sir, are you an honest man by the name of Hastings? Hastings That's my name. Spruce Delighted to meet you. Here is my master, freshly arrived, named McNaughten, coming from Scotland, just to marry your daughter. Hastings Ah, sir, hopefully this unexpected meeting will show you how glad I am you are here. Captain And you, too, sir, witness a parallel joy and respect in your intended son-in-law. Hastings Your figure, your air, your wit--enchant me. My heart would be completely happy if your late uncle, whom I met with often to conclude this marriage, was still alive. Captain Ah, sir, don't recall his death. An uncle that I loved with a tender regard. This boy can tell you of my excessive sorrow, and how, at his death, I was awash in tears. Spruce How Heaven made his soul miserable! But to speak of him is to touch a very tender nerve and might-- But he was very old. Hastings Not so very old, same age with me, about fifty. Spruce The word old can be understood in many ways. I speak of old with respect to his health. He was always complaining of some infirmity. Hastings Not at all. He was never attacked by a malady in his entire life until the horrible accident which caused his death. Captain He had an iron constitution. Spruce (aside to Captain) Now, you're right. Captain (aside to Spruce) Shut up, then. Hastings This conversation will awaken your grief. Let's talk of something more lively and gay. You are going to see my daughter, and I flatter myself you will be very content with her looks and her vivacity. Captain I hope that duty will answer for me. I count very little on my own will. Hastings You are quite wrong. Rely on enchanting her at first sight. I know women, and, take my word, Flavella is a wax tablet which I mould and form to my pleasure. I'll be very much surprised if you are not to her taste. I am her father, and to show you how much she defers to my wishes, just step aside. I am going to call her, and, without her seeing you, you will see how she responds to you. (Exit Hastings) Captain Leave me here. Go find my brother. The main thing is to prevent him from meeting Mr. Torrington. Make sure! Spruce I agree. But, in the romantic mood he's in, I don't guarantee I'll be able to prevent him from seeing Miss Flavella. So, press her ardently, but be quick about it, there's no time to waste. Captain Go, quickly. I won't lose any time here. (steps aside) (Exit Spruce in one direction. From another, enter Hastings and Flavella.) Hastings Now, come along, Flavella. Flavella What is it, father?