say that I think that Brother John's coldness to me is peculiarly painful. I
expected a more enthusiastic welcome, especially considering it is the first
time I have come here.
CECILY
Uncle Jack, if you don't shake hands with Ernest, I will never forgive
you.
JACK
Never forgive me?
CECILY
Never, never, never! JACK Well, this is the last time I shall ever do it. [Shakes hands with ALGERNON and glares. ]
CHASUBLE
It's pleasant, is it not, to see so perfect a reconciliation? I think
we might leave the two brothers together.
MISS PRISM
Cecily, you will come with us. CECILY Certainly, Miss Prism. My little task of reconciliation is over. CHASUBLE
You have done a beautiful action today, dear child.
MISS PRISM
We must not be premature in our judgments. CECILY I feel very happy. [They all go off.] JACK
You young scoundrel, Algy, you must get out of this place as soon as
possible. I don't allow any Bunburying here.
[Enter MERRIMAN.]
MERRIMAN
I have put Mr. Ernest's things in the room next to yours, sir. I
suppose that is all right?
JACK
What?
MERRIMAN
Mr. Ernest's luggage, sir. I have unpacked it and put it in the
room next to your own.
.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, ACT 1 / 17 11
JACK
His luggage?
MERRIMAN
Yes, sir. Three portmanteaus, a dressing case, two hat-boxes, and a large luncheon basket.1
ALGERNON
I am afraid I can't stay more than a week this time.
JACK
iMerriman, order the dogcart2 at once. Mr. Ernest has been suddenly
called back to town. MERRIMAN Yes, sir. [Goes back into the house.] ALGERNON
What a fearful liar you are, Jack. I have not been called back to
town at all.
JACK
Yes, you have. ALGERNON I haven't heard anyone call me. JACK
Your duty as a gentleman calls you back.
ALGERNON
My duty as a gentleman has never interfered with my pleasures
in the smallest degree.
JACK
