PATRICK
Did you buy the horse, papa?
RODERICK
Now, just have a little patience, my boy. Your birthday isn't until next week.
PATRICK
But I will have it on my birthday, won't I?
RODERICK
Well, we'll just have to wait and see, won't we?
He walks up the steps holding Patrick, who hugs and kisses him.
RODERICK (V.O.)
My son, little Patrick Cosgrove, was a prince; his breeding and manners, even at his early age, showed him to be worthy of the two noble families from whom he was descended, and I don't know what high hopes I had for the boy, and indulged in a thousand fond anticipations as to his future success and figure in the world, but stern Fate had determined that I should leave none of my race behind me.
Roderick is drunk. Patrick is brought in by his governor, Hunt, to say good night. His kisses his mother first, then approaches Roderick.
PATRICK
(kissing him)
Good night, papa.
RODERICK
Good night, my little darling.
PATRICK
Papa?
RODERICK
Yes?
PATRICK
One of the boys in the stable told Nelly that you've already bought my horse, and that it's at Doolan's farm, where Mick the groom is breaking it in. Is that true, papa?
RODERICK
(angered)
What the devil? What kind of fools do we have here? Pottle, who told the lad this story?
HUNT
I don't know, sir.
PATRICK
Then it's true! It's true! Oh, thank you, papa! Thank you!
He hugs his father.
COUNTESS
Promise me, Patrick, that you will not ride the horse except in the company of your father.
PATRICK
(unconvincingly)
I promise, mama.
RODERICK
I promise your lordship a good flogging if you even so much as go to Doolan's farm to see him.
PATRICK
Yes, papa.
Roderick is awakened by his valet and Hunt, the governor.
RODERICK
"Yes»»»?
VALET
I'm sorry to disturb you, sir, but Mr. Hunt has something important to tell you.
RODERICK
Yes?
HUNT
I think Master Patrick has disobeyed your orders and stolen off to Doolan's farm. When I went to the lad's room this morning, his bed was empty. One of the cooks said she saw him go away before daybreak. He must have slipped through my room while I was asleep.