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—[Disgruntledly.] It’s hard to tell who’s jokin’ and who’s not in this house.

—[Firmly.] I’m not joking, Uncle Dick—and since I’ve got your permission, I’m going with you. [As looks at him uncertainly.] You needn’t be afraid I’ll go back on my word. When I say I’ll go, I’ll go.

—[Hurt by the insinuation he feels in onetone [sic].] Andy! That isn’t fair!

—[Beginning to be disturbed.] But I know he must be fooling us. Aren’t you, Andy?

—No, Ma, I’m not.

—[Frowning.] Seems to me this ain’t no subject to joke over—not for Andy.

—[Facing his father.] I agree with you, Pa, and I tell you again, once and for all, that I’ve made up my mind to go.

—[Dumbfounded—unable to doubt the determination in voice—helplessly.] But why, son? Why?

—[Evasively.] I’ve always wanted to go, even if I ain’t said anything about it.

—Andy!

—[Half-angrily.] You shut up, Rob! I told you to keep out of this. [Turning to his father again.] I didn’t ever mention it because as long as Rob was going I knew it was no use; but now Rob’s staying on here, and Uncle Dick wants someone along with him, there isn’t any reason for me not to go.