Miss B. Betty, I am deeply grateful for your belief in Judge Ingram.
Enter Mandy with Mrs. A. Mandy carries a basket into which she has been picking the roses. She looks curiously at Miss B., as she observes her agitation. Mrs. A. takes Miss B.’s hand affectionately.
Mrs. A. My dear friend, I have just heard the news concerning Judge Ingram. Surely there is some awful misapprehension. No one who knows him could, for a minute, believe him a spy for the British.
Miss B. (still holding Mrs. A.’s hand). I thank you for those words. There is some grave mistake. For fear that he may—may be executed before others can clear him—— (Turns to Mandy, who stands with open mouth, and speaks sharply.) Mandy! Run to Clapp’s Tavern and reserve two seats on the Boston coach to-night. Here, pay for them with this guinea.
(Gives Mandy gold from her side pocket. Mandy exits in haste.)
Mrs. A. Take my prayers and my good wishes with you, Miss Boltwood. If I can be of service in any way, pray let me know. [Exit.
Miss B. Come, Betty, let us make haste to prepare for the journey. [Exeunt.
(For a moment the stage is empty. There is the sound of a knocker. No one responds. The knocker sounds again. After a time Judge, in the uniform of a minuteman, enters supporting Will., who has his arm in a sling.)
Judge. There seems to be no one at home, William, but you must rest before going on to your own house. Mayhap the ladies will return soon.
Will. (sinking back wearily in the great chair; he is white and weak). ’Twas most kind of you, sir, to bring me home. I do not think I could have journeyed so far unaided. Yet you are needed in the army.