., revealing
veranda and view of distant city beyond. Stage, fog effect from without.
Enter STARBOTTLE and OAKHURST, R., in full evening dress.

Starbottle (walking towards veranda). A foggy evening for our
anniversary.

Oakhurst. Yes. (Aside.) It was such a night as this I first stepped
into Sandy's place, I first met the old man. Well, it will be soon over.
(Aloud.) You have the papers and transfers all ready?

Starbottle. In my--er--pocket. Mr. Morton, sen., should be here to
receive his guests.

Oakhurst. He will be here presently: until then the duty devolves on
me. He has secluded himself even from me! (Aside.) Perhaps it is in very
shame for his recent weakness.

Enter SERVANT.

Servant. Don Jose Castro, Miss Castro, and Miss Morris.

Enter DON JOSE with JOVITA and MISS MARY on either arm. All formally
salute MR. OAKHURST, except MISS JOVITA, who turns coldly away, taking
seat remotely on sofa. COL. STARBOTTLE gallantly approaches MISS MARY,
and takes seat beside her.

Oakhurst (aside). They are here to see my punishment. There is no
sympathy even in her eyes.

Enter SERVANT.

Servant. Mr. Concepcion Garcia and Mr. Capper.

Concho (approaching OAKHURST, rubbing his hands). I wish you joy, Mr.
Alexander Morton!

Oakhurst (excitedly, aside). Shall I throw him from the window! The
dog!--even he!

Capper (approaching MR. OAKHURST). You have done well. Be bold. I will
see you through. As for THAT man (pointing to CONCHO), leave him to ME!
(Lays his hand on Concho's shoulder, and leads him to sofa R. OAKHURST
takes seat in chair L. as SANDY enters quietly from door L., and stands
leaning upon his chair.)

Starbottle (rising). Ladies and gentlemen, we are waiting only for the
presence of Mr. Alexander Morton, sen. I regret to say that for the last
twenty-four hours--he has been--er--exceedingly preoccupied with the
momentous cares of the--er--occasion. You who know the austere habits
of my friend and--er--client will probably understand that he may be at
this very moment engaged in prayerful and Christian meditation, invoking
the Throne of Grace, previous to the solemn duties of--er--er--tonight.

Enter SERVANT.

Servant. Mr. Alexander Morton, sen.

Enter OLD MORTON, drunk, in evening costume, cravat awry, coat
half-buttoned up, and half-surly, half-idiotic manner. All rise in
astonishment. SANDY starts forward. OAKHURST pulls him back.

Morton (thickly). Don't rish! Don't rish! We'll all sit do