MAYNARD: And now, ladies and gentlemen, on the occasion of my birthday, I also have the honor to announce that Mrs. Wilson has this day consented to become my wife.
(MRS. WILSON steps forward from house and bows to assembled guests in a triumphant way, the guests coldly return her bow.)
(EDGAR TREMBLE enters from Centre.)
MAYNARD: What can I do for you, Mr. Tremble?
TREMBLE: Just one thing, and that is to give me the money you owe me. The mortgage I hold on your plantation for $50,000 is due today and, unless you hand over the money right away, I'll turn you out bag and baggage.
MAYNARD: (Pleadingly.) Won't you give me a few days longer to try and raise the money?
TREMBLE: Not a day, not an hour. I must have the money at once or out you go.
MAYNARD: (Wringing his hands.) I am a ruined man! (Turning to MRS. WILSON.) But at least I will have the consolation of a true and loving companion. (MAYNARD reaches out for her hand, but she draws it away.) Why, what does this mean, Alice?
MRS. WILSON: I fear, Mr. Maynard, that I was never cut out to be a poor man's wife, so I ask you to release me from my engagement. (Walks off stage at Right accompanied by the hisses of the guests.)
TREMBLE: (To MAYNARD.) As you evidently haven't got the $50,000 to pay the mortgage, the plantation becomes mine and I now order you all off the premises.