BOX.
Besides, if we both came off without our noses, or with only two eyes between us, we should neither be able to marry Penelope Anne.
c.o.x.
True. I have it.
BOX.
So have I.
c.o.x.
The Lady shall decide.
BOX.
Just exactly what I was going to propose.
[_A female voice heard without, singing a jodel._
[* _This is MRS. FRIMMELY. She sings a Tyrolienne by Offenbach, and in French. Every one delighted.
Being encored, she appears at the door, curtseys, retires and sings again, "without."_]
c.o.x.
"Tis she! What superb notes!
BOX.
It"s a rich voice.
c.o.x.
She"s a rich widow.
BOTH.
She comes.
[_PENELOPE ANNE appears C. in ultra Parisian watering-place toilette. They bring her down between them, each taking a hand._
BOTH.
Penelope Anne!
[_Both kneel R. and L.C._
[Ill.u.s.tration: PENELOPE ANNE.]
PENELOPE.
Mr. James c.o.x. Ah! (_starts_).
BOX.
You"ve frightened her. You"re so ugly.
PENELOPE.
Mr. John Box. Oh! (_faints, and falls into a chair placed C._)
c.o.x.
You"ve killed her. You Gorilla.
BOX.
Gorilla--(_they are about to fight, when she screams again_). What shall we do?
c.o.x (_excitedly_).
Cold key--Senna--no, I mean Salts.
BOX (_more excitedly_).
Pooh! Cold water .... with something in it.
c.o.x.
Where"s the sulphur water--throw it--
PENELOPE (_shrieking_).
Ah! (_rising_). How dare you! (_calls_). Husband!
BOX.
She said Husband. Dearest--
[_PENELOPE slaps his face._
c.o.x.
She means _me_. I knew it. Angel--
[_PENELOPE repeats the slap on HIS face._
BOX.