Do as you please, Andy; but for God’s sake, let’s not talk about it! [There is a pause. Andrew stares at Robert in hurt stupefaction. Robert continues after a moment in a voice which he vainly attempts to keep calm.] Excuse me, Andy. This rotten headache has my nerves shot to pieces.
Andrew—[Mumbling.] It’s all right, Rob—long as you’re not sore at me.
Robert—Where did Uncle Dick disappear to this morning?
Andrew—He went down to the port to see to things on the Sunda. He said he didn’t know exactly when he’d be back. I’ll have to go down and tend to the ship when he comes. That’s why I dressed up in these togs.
Mary—[Pointing down the hill to the left.] See Dada! Mama! Mama! [She jumps to her feet and starts to run down the path.]
Andrew—[Standing and looking down.] Yes, here comes Ruth. Must be looking for you, I guess. [Jumping forward and stopping Mary.] Hey up! You mustn’t run down hill like that, little girl. You’ll take a bad fall, don’t you know it?
Robert—Stay here and wait for your mother, Mary.
Mary—[Struggling to her feet.] No! No! Mama! Dada!
Andrew—Here she is! [Ruth appears at left. She is dressed in white, shows she has been fixing up. She looks pretty, flushed and full of life.]
