Part 31 (2/2)
THE DEAN.
Bills!
BLORE.
The dog died--the poison's in my pantry--it couldn't have got used for cooking purposes.
THE DEAN.
I see the broad meadows and the tall Spire of the college--the Spire!
Oh, my whole life seems made up of Bills and Spires!
BLORE.
[_To himself._] I'll do it! I'll do it!
[_Unseen by The Dean he quickly and quietly steals out by the door._
THE DEAN.
Where are the drugs--the drugs? [_Opening the medicine chest and bending down over the bottles he pours some drops from a bottle into the basin._] [_Counting._] Three--four--five--six. [_He replaces the bottle and takes another._] How fortunate some animals are!
[_Counting._] One--two--three, four. It's done!
[_Taking up the medicine chest he goes with it into the Library._
_As he disappears BLORE re-enters stealthily fingering a small paper packet._
BLORE.
[_In a whisper._] Strychnine! [_There is a heavy roll of thunder--BLORE darts to the table, empties the contents of the packet into the basin, and stirs vigorously with the rolling-pin._] I've cooked Dandy d.i.c.k! I've cooked Dandy d.i.c.k! [_He moves from the table in horror._] Oh! I'm only a hamatoor sportsman and I can't afford a uncertainty. [_As THE DEAN returns, BLORE starts up guiltily._] Can I help you any more, Sir?
THE DEAN.
No, remove these dreadful things, and don't let me see you again to-night!
[_Sits with the basin on his knees, and proceeds to roll the paste._
BLORE.
[_Removing the tray._] It's only an 'orse--it's only an 'orse! But after to-morrow I'll retire from the Turf, if only to reclaim 'im.
[_He goes out._
THE DEAN.
[_Putting on his coat._] I don't contemplate my humane task with resignation. The stable is small, and if the animal is restive we shall be cramped for room. [_The rain is heard._] I shall get a chill too. [_Seeing SIR TRISTRAM'S coat and cap lying upon the settee._] I am sure Mardon will lend me this gladly. [_Putting on the coat, which completely envelops him._] The animal may recognize the garment, and receive me with kindly feeling. [_Putting on the sealskin cap, which almost conceals his face._] Ugh! why do I feel this dreadful sinking at the heart? [_Taking the basin and turning out the lamp._] Oh! if all followers of the veterinary science are as truly wretched as I am, what a n.o.ble band they must be!
[_The thunder rolls as he goes through the window curtains. SIR TRISTRAM then enters quietly, smoking, and carrying a lighted candle._
<script>