seizes her; she cries out.] Merciful heaven! Has something happened again?
Hyacinth—The professor was kissed.
Beatrice—[In alarm.] By whom?
Hyacinth—By Albert.
Beatrice—[With a sigh of relief.] Oh!
Dominica—What does this mean? One after another, you are all kissing this person. What sort of man is he?
Hyacinth—A most admirable man.
Beatrice—Did you kiss him, too?
Hyacinth—Yesterday. But I shall kiss him again before he goes away.
Dominica—There appears to be no further need for me to talk to him. The young man has had his reward.
Albert—It seems to me, mother, that a man who had performed such a great service for the family deserved it. Not only from the bride but also from the bridegroom. [Dominica nods assent.]
Hyacinth—Especially from the bridegroom.
Dominica—Quite right.
Beatrice—If he hasn't gone yet . . . perhaps I ought to kiss him too . . . what?
Dominica—I fancy he has had enough. But I shall kiss . . . your daughter.
Alexandra—Dear Aunt . . . if you deem me worthy. . . .
