MARIONETTA
I see, Mr Flosky, you think my intrusion unseasonable, and are
inclined to punish it, by talking nonsense to me. (_Mr Flosky gave a
start at the word nonsense, which almost overturned the table._) I
assure you, I would not have intruded if I had not been very much
interested in the question I wish to ask you.--(_Mr Flosky listened
in sullen dignity._)--My cousin Scythrop seems to have some secret
preying on his mind.--(_Mr Flosky was silent._)--He seems very
unhappy--Mr Flosky.--Perhaps you are acquainted with the cause.--(_Mr
Flosky was still silent._)--I only wish to know--Mr Flosky--if it is
any thing--that could be remedied by any thing--that any one--of whom
I know any thing--could do.
MR FLOSKY (_after a pause_)
There are various ways of getting at secrets. The most approved
methods, as recommended both theoretically and practically in
philosophical novels, are eavesdropping at key-holes, picking the
locks of chests and desks, peeping into letters, steaming wafers, and
insinuating hot wire under sealing wax; none of which methods I hold
it lawful to practise.
MARIONETTA
Surely, Mr Flosky, you cannot suspect me of wishing to adopt or
encourage such base and contemptible arts.
MR FLOSKY
Yet are they recommended, and with well-strung reasons, by writers of
gravity and note, as simple and easy methods of studying character,
and gratifying that laudable curiosity which aims at the knowledge of
man.
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