(Turns to WILLIAM C. He takes her in his arms, then HELEN moves over to R. of him.)
MRS. CROSBY (in front of table R.). I think she succeeded, my dear.
WALES (L.C.). Miss O'Neill, I didn't even know that you had a mother.
WILLIAM (C.). Then you'd better tell us now whatever your objection is.
WALES. I can tell you nothing until to-morrow. (He turns to WILLIAM.) Billy, I'd rather be shot than do what I'm doing. If I'm wrong I'll come to you gladly and eat dirt. I'll beg this young lady's pardon, on my knees if she likes. (Voices and laughter heard off L.) Now that's all I'm going to say about it until then. (Moves up L.)
(The door L. opens. MARY EASTWOOD, HELEN TRENT, ELIZABETH ERSKINE, GRACE STANDISH, HOWARD STANDISH, PHILIP MASON and BRADDISH TRENT enter laughing and talking.)
MISS EASTWOOD (at L.C. To crowd in doorway). And he said whose wife?
(All laugh.)
WILLIAM (C. HELEN in front of table R.). Quiet, quiet, everybody. I've got a surprise for you.
(From the people at the door come laughter and buzz of conversation.)