Avonia.

[With a little screech.] Ah—h—h! she ought to be told!

Tom.

[Seizing her wrist.] Woman, you won't——!

Avonia.

[Raising her disengaged hand.] By all my hopes of hitting 'em——!

Tom.

All right, I believe you. [Listening.] Sssh!

[They rise and separate, he moving to the fire, she to the right, as Rose enters. Rose is now a grave, dignified, somewhat dreamy young woman.]

Rose.