[Going to him slowly, leaning against the balustrade.] John——

John.

Well?

Olive.

I will confess it to you—I didn’t strike the bell at all.

John.

You—did not?

Olive.

I was under the impression I had stopped the clock before I sat down to listen, but in my agitation I must have shaken it and started it again. [Kneeling beside John’s chair.] The clock struck of its own accord.

John.