George Melville Baker

A Mysterious Disappearance: a Farce George Melville Baker

Publisher Marketing: Nelly (throwing brush on lounge). That will do for to-day. It's time Carlos were back from the post-office. I am anxious to obtain a letter from my invisible adorer, Dixon Dolby. How my good brother would open his eyes if he knew the extent of my wickedness. Three months ago, six of us girls at school, desirous of acquiring proficiency in correspondence, agreed to write to gentlemen whom we had never met, but whom we knew by reputation to be gentlemen. My choice was my brother's chum before his marriage, Dixon Dolby. My plan succeeded admirably. He answered the note signed, Rosa Bean. The most tender and impassioned epistles followed on both sides, until at last he had the impudence to request an exchange of photographs. I consented, but was not fool enough to allow him to discover my identity; so, to secure his, I sent instead a photograph of my brother's wife. I knew they had never met, but they must; and when they do, won't there be fun. I only hope I shall be at the denouement. Ah! here's Carlos. (Enter CARLOS, C., with two letters and a paper.) Well, Carlos, what success? Carlos (putting letters behind him). Hey? What'll you give to know? Ought to give a feller somethin' purty sweet, cos I ran all the way. Nelly. Indeed I will, Carlos. My warmest thanks and my sweetest smile. Carlos. Is that all? Well, here's a letter (gives her a letter). Nelly. O, thank you, Carlos. You're a dear, good boy (takes letter, and sits in arm-chair, L.).