Part 32 (1/2)

ROSALINE.

I say, where is your friend?

REMBRANDT TEMPENNY.

Who?

ROSALINE.

Didn't you say this studio belonged to a friend of yours?

REMBRANDT TEMPENNY.

Oh yes; he hasn't come yet. I expect he will be here this afternoon.

ROSALINE.

What's this? (_picking up Mandarin's Wig_.) One of his props?

REMBRANDT TEMPENNY.

That? That is a Mandarin's wig. Yes, of course it is one of his props.

He has just been engaged on a great work: ”The Decapitation of a Mandarin after a Chinese Reverse.” The gentleman who sat for the Mandarin wore that wig.

ROSALINE.

What a funny subject to choose.

REMBRANDT TEMPENNY.

Rather playful, isn't it? He likes 'em like that. That's his forte.

ROSALINE.

What is his name--do I know him?

REMBRANDT TEMPENNY.

Charlie Sylvester; and a rattling good chap he is, let me tell you.

ROSALINE (_with a shriek_).

Oh, my heart! This is fate!

REMBRANDT TEMPENNY (_alarmed_.)

I beg your pardon? Don't go off like that. What's the matter?

ROSALINE.