the organ grinder lent it to me, as a great favor; but if it gets broken
Edith. Whatever is this?
Mamie (perceiving Edith for the first time, and being startled). Oh, it's Madam! What shall I say? (Quickly to Edith.) Yes, Madam, the young ladies alone are to blame; I had to borrow an organ for them, fetch crullers from the attic, and costumes from the bakery, and goodness knows what else; they nearly tore me to pieces like hungry wolves—the cake, all this time, must be burnt to a crisp, and—and
Edith (biting her lips, so as not to laugh). I have heard enough! Oh, these children! They deserve to be made an example of!
The girls (sobbing in their handkerchiefs). Mamma, Mrs. Johnson, forgive us!
Edith (resisting them). Not at all; there will be no further amusement this evening.
The girls (sobbing louder). Oh, dear!
Edith (aside). I won't go too far; it is getting too tragic!
Mamie. Oh, ma'am, you can believe me; I am perfectly innocent.
Edith (who has made a great effort to keep serious, suddenly bursts out laughing). Ha! ha! I have played a great joke on you all! Ha! ha! ha!
The girls (taking their handkerchiefs from their eyes). Why, what is it?
Edith (removing the veil). Why girls, don't you know me yet?
The girls (surprised). Oh, Edith! For shame, how you did frighten us!
Edith. I only played a little joke on you; it is your own fault if you fell into the trap. But now hurry up and put away these costumes.
Nellie. Oh, no; now we can have all the more fun.
Sadie. Certainly we will, after such a scare.
Edith. But girls, do be reasonable.
The girls. No, no; we must have a good time.
Mamie. Of course; and I will fetch the crullers; the young ladies will forgive me for having told on them. (Exit.)
Nellie. Quick now; and Flora will play for us.
