Soph. Now, children, did not I tell you yesterday that papa would love us again; and you see he has begun to do it already.
Boy. And so he does, Sophy; and I'm sorry I spoke so naughtily of him, for my heart jumps so when he loves me! (looking off the stage.) But see! what is he about now, beating his forehead and walking up and down so strangely?
Soph. O dear! something is the matter. (Exit, alarmed.)
Boy. (to little girl.) Now don't ask me for those marbles at present, Emma; I can't find them, I don't know where they are. (looking off the stage again.) O how terrible he looks!
(Re-enter Seabright, with an open letter in his hand, beating his head with his clench'd hand, and tossing about his arm distractedly, followed by Sophia, who seems frightened at him, and yet wishing to sooth him. A long pause, in which he paces up and down the stage followed by Sophia, whilst the children run into a corner, frightened, and stare at him.)
Soph. (after attempting in vain several times to speak.) My father! my dear, dear father! (he still paces up and down without heeding her.) O if you would but speak two words, and tell what is the matter with you, my dear, dear Sir!
Sea. I am ruined, and deceived, and undone! I am a bankrupt and a beggar!—I have made beggars of you all!
