Little Nancy (Imperiously): Now, me. (Rachel kisses her, and then amid shrieks, recriminations, pulling of hair, jostling, etc., she kisses the rest. The small tot is still oblivious to everything that is going on).
Rachel (Laughing): You children will pull me limb from limb; and then I’ll be all dead; and you’ll be sorry—see, if you aren’t. (They fall back immediately. Tom and John watch in amused silence. Rachel loses all self-consciousness, and seems to bloom in the children’s midst). Edith! come here this minute, and let me tie your hair-ribbon again. Nancy, I’m ashamed of you, I saw you trying to pull it off. (Nancy looks abashed but mischievous). Louise, you look as sweet as sweet, this morning; and Jenny, where did you get the pretty, pretty dress?
Little Jenny (Snuffling, but proud): My mother made it. (Pauses with more snuffles). My mother says I have a very bad cold. (There is a brief silence interrupted by the small tot with the geranium).
Little Martha (In a sweet, little voice): I—have—a—pitty—’ittle flower.
Rachel: Honey, it’s beautiful. Don’t you want “Morning kiss” too?
Little Martha: Yes, I do.
Rachel: Come, honey. (Rachel kisses her). Are you going to give the pretty flower to Jenny’s teacher? (Vigorous shakings of the head in denial). Is it for—mother? (More shakings of the head). Is it for—let’s see—Daddy? (More shakings of the head). I give up. To whom are you going to give the pretty flower, honey?
Little Martha (Shyly): “Oo.”
Rachel: You, darling!
Little Martha: Muzzer and I picked it—for “oo.” Here ’tis. (Puts her finger in her mouth, and gives it shyly).