Rachel (In wheedling tones): What were you thinking, John?

Strong (Slowly): I was thinking—(Breaks off).

Rachel (Irritably): Well?

Strong: I’ve changed my mind.

Rachel: You’re not going to tell me?

Strong: No.

(Mrs. Loving dressed for the street comes in).

Mrs. Loving: Goodbye, children. Rachel, don’t quarrel so much with John. Let me see—if I have my key. (Feels in her bag) Yes, I have it. I’ll be back shortly. Good-bye. (Strong and Rachel rise. He bows).

Rachel: Good-bye, Ma dear. Hurry back as soon as you can, won’t you? (Exit Mrs. Loving through the vestibule. Strong leans back again in his chair, and watches Rachel through half-closed eyes. Rachel sits in her chair nervously).

Strong: Do you mind, if I smoke?