Page:The Story of the Gadsbys - Kipling (1888).djvu/79

 CENE.—''The Gadsbys' bungalow in the Plains in June. Punkah coolies asleep in verandah where Captain Gadsby is walking up and down. Doctor's trap in porch. Junior Chaplain fluctuating generally and uneasily through the house. Time—3·40 Heat 94° in verandah.''

(coming into verandah and touching G. on the shoulder).—You had better go in and see her now.

(the colour of good cigar-ash).—Eh, wha-at? Oh, yes, of course. What did you say?

(syllable by syllable).—Go—in—to—the—room—and—see—her. She wants to speak to you. (Aside, testily.) I shall have him on my hands next.

(in half-lighted dining-room}.—Isn't there any?

(savagely).—Hsh, you little fool!

.—Let me do my work. Gadsby, stop a minute! (Edges after G.)

.—Wait till she sends for you at least—at least. Man alive, he'll kill you if you go in there! What are you bothering him for?

(coming into verandah).—I've given him a stiff brandy-peg. He wants it. You've forgotten him for the last ten hours and—forgotten yourself too.

''G. enters bed-room, which is lighted by one night-lamp. Ayah on the floor pretending to be asleep''.

(from the bed).—All down the street—such bonfires! Ayah, go and put them out! (Appealingly.) How can I sleep with an installation of the C.I.E. in my room? No—not C.I.E. Something else. What was it?

(trying to control his voice).—Minnie, I'm here.