Bemis.'

BEMIS: 'Probably it was the same gang attacked us both. After
escaping from Mr. Roberts they fell upon me.'

MRS. CRASHAW: 'I haven't a doubt of it.'

ROBERTS, sotto voce to his brother-in-law: 'I think I'll ask you to
go with me to my room, Willis. Don't alarm Agnes, please. I--I
feel quite faint.'

MRS. ROBERTS, crestfallen: 'I can't feel that Edward was to blame.
Ed--Oh, I suppose he's gone off to make himself presentable. But
Willis--Where's Willis, Aunt Mary?'

MRS. CRASHAW: 'Probably gone with him to help him.'

MRS. ROBERTS: 'Oh, he SAW how unstrung poor Edward was! Mr. Bemis,
I think you're quite prejudiced. How could Edward help their
escaping? I think it was quite enough for him, single-handed, to
get his watch back.' A ring at the door, and then a number of
voices in the anteroom. 'I do believe they're all there! I'll just
run out and prepare your son. He would be dreadfully shocked if he
came right in upon you.' She runs into the anteroom, and is heard
without: 'Oh, Dr. Lawton! Oh, Lou dear! OH, Mr. Bemis! How can I
ever tell you? Your poor father! No, no, I CAN'T tell you! You
mustn't ask me! It's too hideous! And you wouldn't believe me if I
did.'

Chorus of anguished voices: 'What? what? what?'