Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/522

 reverend sir. What a reward must be awaiting you in that other life!

( rushes in from the right. He is excited, evasive, conscience-stricken. He talks rapidly.)

John.—What is this? What are you doing? We need some kind of a collapse from you to cap the climax!

Ann.—It is nothing, don’t worry.

John.—Just so it’s nothing.

Dean.—It is no wonder that the nerves should give way a little before the onslaught of such events such a revival of memories!

John.—It does seem a little precipitate, that flood. What a surprise! And what a blow!

Dean.—Just so it ends with the blow, my dear John.

John.—One never can tell. I should sooner have expected my own death. Death came and the old man is I pray you, where is this death dealer  this returned prodigal?

Dean.—John you are a poor dissembler. Don’t pretend! You don’t need to tell us that there is a single detail of what has been going on here in this garden that has escaped you.

John.—What is this boy doing here this time of night? Off to bed with him, and with you, too.

Dean.—You are not holding well together, John

John (Head in hands).—But the little chap must get some rest. I will have my orders obeyed. (Calling) Andrew! (To ) And you go with him.

Ann.—You know perfectly well that I am going to stay here.

John (Shaking ).—Andrew! Andrew!

Ann.—Not so rough, if you please! The child is disturbed enough as it is. (To who enters.) Andrew, will you please carry Johnny to bed?

Andrew.—To be sure, to be sure. What else have I been playing at but nurse around here since he was born!

Ann.—And tell Granny to stay with him till I come.

(As goes out with  and  come out of the lodge.)

Hans.—Again from the bottom of my heart I thank you for what you have done for the dear old man. (About to kiss her hand.)

Johnny (Hearing voice, calling).—Uncle! Uncle! ( takes him.)

Julia.—No, no, please. Not that!