CAPTAIN. I can hear—I can hear what they are saying—It's the children.
Goes over to the instrument and sends an answer; the receiver continues to click for awhile, and then the CAPTAIN answers again.
ALICE. Well?
CAPTAIN. Wait a little—[Gives a final click] The children are at the guard-house in the city. Judith is not well again and is staying away from school.
ALICE. Again! What more did they say?
CAPTAIN. Money, of course!
ALICE. Why is Judith in such a hurry? If she didn't pass her examinations until next year, it would be just as well.
CAPTAIN. Tell her, and see what it helps.
ALICE. You should tell her.
CAPTAIN. How many times have I not done so? But children have their own wills, you know.