]
HAWCASTLE. Oh, it isn't that; but it's somewhat annoying not to be
allowed to read one's paper in peace.
HORACE. Quite beastly annoying!
LADY CREECH. I had a distinct impression that the management had
reserved this terrace for our party.
VASILI [quietly]. I fear we have disturbed these good people.
PIKE [in wonder]. Do you think they're hinting at us?
VASILI. I fear so.
PIKE [gently and with sincere amazement]. Why, _we_ haven't done
anything to 'em.
VASILI. No, my friend.
PIKE [smiling]. Well, I guess there ain't any bones broken.
HORACE [throws down paper angrily on tea-table]. I can't stand this. I
shall go for a stroll.
PIKE [rising]. I expect it's about time for me to go and find the two
young folks I've come to look after.
VASILI. You are here for a duty, then?
PIKE [with gravity, yet smiling faintly]. I shouldn't be surprised if
that was the name for it. Yes, sir, all the way from Indiana.
[ETHEL utters a low cry of fear.]
[HORACE, having secured his hat, is just rising to go, drops back into
his chair with a stifled exclamation of dismay.]
[HAWCASTLE lays his paper flat on table. All this instantaneous.]
HAWCASTLE. By Jove!
[They all stare at PIKE.]
PIKE [continuing]. I expect, prob'ly, Doc, I won't be able to eat with
you this evening.
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