Edith.—Yes, I am. I have noticed when visiting poor people that the working classes are very fond of buttered toast, and they always arrange it ready buttered on a plate—so. (Shows him plate.) But please go on. You were saying that there are only two sorts of people in India-cultured civilians like you and papa, and abandoned ruffians and adventurers like our guest. Are there not a few Soldiers, Merchants, Engineers, and so on?
Smallweed.—Merchants, Engineers, Railway people, are adventurers whom we have to tolerate; and as for Soldiers, Miss Edith, they are a tertium quid—necessary evils. I have no sympathy with the military spirit.
Edith.—So I should have thought.
Smallweed.—Their want of true culture, their arrogance, their self-sufficiency
Edith.—Their what?
Smallweed.—Their insufferable conceit, which I am sorry to say your sex does its best to encourage.
Edith.-How very sad!
Smallweed (tenderly).—But you don't care for soldiers, I am sure. You have a mind above the childish fascination some young ladies find in a spangled uniform. Oh! Miss Bulthrop, you have been kind enough to take an interest in my pursuits. You have allowed me to tell you a little of the history of the ancient rulers of this country. Won't you be persuaded to look kindly on one of its modern rulers? (Poses sentimentally.)
Edith (laughing).-A modern ruler! Do you know I never looked upon you in that light before? and you really are imposing. But if you are a modern ruler, I'm a home ruler, and my decree is that you go now and rule your millions in cutcherry with papa, while I send the prisoner his breakfast. Good morning, Mr. Smallweed!
Smallweed (aside on exit).—If, even when she chaffs me, she would only call me Percy.
(Exit Smallweed.)
EDlTH.—A ruler indeed! Ah well! I suppose papa is right, and Mr. Smallweed is one of the most admirable and excellent of competition-wallahs. But—heigho! I wonder what Frank is doing at this minute! I didn't tell a fib when I said to papa I didn't care for him, for though we were the best of friends, and I
