Strong: I don’t know why it should be—I was just asking how you are.
Rachel: Heavens! Does the mere inquiry into my health precipitate such an atmosphere? Your two faces were as long, as long—(Breaks off). Kind sir, let me assure you, I am in the very best of health. And how are you, John?
Strong: Oh! I’m always well. (Sits down).
Mrs. Loving: Rachel, I’ll have to get ready to go now. John, don’t hurry. I’ll be back shortly, probably in three-quarters of an hour—maybe less.
Rachel: And maybe more, if I remember Mrs. Jordan. However, Ma dear, I’ll do the best I can—while you are away. I’ll try to be a credit to your training. (Mrs. Loving smiles and goes out the rear doorway). Now, let’s see—in the books of etiquette, I believe, the properly reared young lady, always asks the young gentleman caller—you’re young enough, aren’t you, to be classed still as a “young gentleman caller?” (No answer). Well, anyway, she always asks the young gentleman caller sweetly something about the weather. (Primly) This has been an exceedingly beautiful day, hasn’t it, Mr. Strong? (No answer from Strong, who, with his head resting against the back of the chair, and his knees crossed is watching her in an amused, quizzical manner). Well, really, every properly brought up young gentleman, I’m sure, ought to know, that it’s exceedingly rude not to answer a civil question.
Strong (Lazily): Tell me what to answer, Rachel.
Rachel: Say, “Yes, Very”; and look interested and pleased when you say it.
Strong (With a half-smile): Yes, very.
Rachel: Well, I certainly wouldn’t characterize that as a particularly animated remark. Besides, when you look at me through half-closed lids like that—and kind of smile—what are you thinking? (No answer) John Strong, are you deaf or—just plain stupid?
Strong: Plain stupid, I guess.