We didn’t use to, but now we take a trip most every year back to old Ohio. Back to the old neighborhood where we were born and married. So ye haven’t got married yet, have ye? Most birds finds a mate when they get full feathered. Looks like you’d be catchin’ some of these rich city fellers. They could line yer nest with feathers.
Ethel
Oh yes, no doubt they could. How did you leave everybody at home?
Hiram
Just like a rose in July. Saw your brother Harry the day before I left. He sent a letter down for you. Said ter be sure and give it ter you and not let the folks see it.
Ethel
Opens letter and reads to self—then to Hiram.
Oh, Hiram, listen to this.
Enter Mr. and Mrs. Benson unobserved—stop and listen as Ethel reads. Ethel reading.
I take it from your last letter, that the folks are out of place in the city and discontented. I’m not surprised—in fact I looked for you to write and tell me before, but I suppose you thought I couldn’t do anything. But listen, I can and I am. I have it all planned. Just across the road on the south quarter there is a piece of a building spot. I was talking with the carpenters yesterday and they said they would be able to start building the house next week. I have let them suffer as long as I can. Out here they won’t have anything to do but to look after themselves and enjoy life where they know how.