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.