Mrs. Arden's Bed-chamher. She is discovered lying on a couch, as if asleep, with a shawl thrown over her face.
EnterYoung Arden, stepping softly on tiptoe.
YOUNG ARDEN.
Is she asleep? Her breast heaves under that covering, as if she slept soundly. (Going up to her.) All covered up so closely! Ha! here is a hand peeping out which I will press by and by right dearly. (Kneels, and bends over her hand, mimicking the action of kissing, but without touching it.) I can see her features, too, through these folds. (Putting his face close to hers, affectionately.) How surprised she will be when she wakes, and sees me by her! Does she not move? She is awake. (Lifting the shawl gently from her face.) Mother! my little dormouse mother!
MRS. ARDEN (shrieking, and starting up).
Good God! art thou here, Edmond? Why art thou come? What brings thee? Hast thou heard any thing?
