The Dutchman Sees a Ship
(The waves of the artificial sea are now set in motion. Ship enters at the left side, and slowly sails twice across. On its third sail the ship is met by a Steamer, coming in an opposite direction. Voices are heard—“Hard a-port! Where are you coming to?” The Ship and Steamer collide together; voices are again heard—“We are sinking! Get out the life-boat!” The sails of the Sailing3Ship become ruffled up, and the Ship gradually sinks beneath the waves—the Steamer passes along uninjured.)
Enter Dutchman.
Dutchman. Yaw, yaw, that vessel is now no more.
Irishman. Arrah, I say, is that ship come in yet?
Dutchman. Ship come in! Vot, have you not heard the news?
Irishman. News! What news?
Dutchman. That ship has sunk—gone to the very bottom.
Irishman. What! With all on board?
Dutchman. Yes; all are drowned.
Irishman. Then my wife’s mother is gone, too. (he puts his hands up to his face and cries.)
Dutchman. Vot! Crying because you’ve lost your mother-in-law?
Irishman. No, friend, it is not that; but maybe when I tell my ole woman she’ll be arter going frantic, and clubbing my head off.
Dutchman. Nonsense! I’ll come with you, and gradually break the sad, sad news. [Exeunt.