And now I have used that word, let me go on with the confession which your kindly readiness, my fair friend, somewhat interrupted.

I said that if I might presume to think my addresses would be acceptable to Miss Hazeldean and her family, I was too sensible of her amiable qualities not to--not to--" MRS.

DALE (with demure archness).--"Not to be the happiest of men,--that's the customary English phrase, Doctor." RICCABOCCA (gallantly).--"There cannot be a better.

But," continued he, seriously, "I wish it first to be understood that I have--been married before!" MRS.

DALE (astonished).--"Married before!" RICCABOCCA.--"And that I have an only child, dear to me,--inexpressibly dear.