Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/531

 as it were. My whole duty has been to see to it that the business does not suffer any serious loss. If, as you say, you should become master here, then it becomes my plain duty to stand up for you as I stood up in his defense a while ago. And I’d be a lion in your defense, Mr. Hans!

Hans.—Well, that makes it different. There, there! What a noble creature you are, to be sure. For that, you may now go to bed and get some sleep. I shall do guard duty here myself till morning. I am at the end of my rope myself, and I may close my eyes for a minute here on the settee.

Andrew.—On this hard bench? I pray that you take the couch in my room.

Hans.—That’s kind of you, Andy, but you know yourself how often in the past years I got all the sleep I needed on this bench in this garden.

Andrew.—Very well, then. Good night, and God bless you.

Hans.—One moment, Andy. My throat is parched. Would you bring me a glass of water before you retire? ( takes glass from table and goes.) No one has set ’em up to me here since I came. With the exception of the perfume from Karvan’s Pulmonary Tea, I have had nothing to sustain me since yesterday noon. (Takes glass from and drinks.) To your good health! Great water! Tastes as good as when I was a boy.

Andrew (Overcome by emotion, falling at his feet).—Oh, Mr. Hans! My golden Mr. Hans!

Hans (As attempts to kiss his hand, embracing him and kissing his cheek). This is just the way you always spoiled me, you old bear!

Andrew (Tearful).—I spoiled you?

Hans.—Run away to bed. In the morning we shall have a long talk.

Andrew.—God give you a sweet good night!

Hans.—But we’ve said that several times already.

( puts out the lamp and goes out R. A moment later the shrill note of a guinea hen announces advancing day.)

Hans.—Ha, that sounds more like good morning.

( lies down on the bench, using his grip for a pillow. As he drops off almost instantly, comes in from the house. She is wrapped in a thick kimona. She steps up to, and speaks softly. Seeing that he is asleep she bends over him tenderly, but suddenly starts with a cry and tries to retreat. He has thrown his arms about her in a strong embrace.)