[Jordan enters at back.

Jordan. [To Blanche.] Beg pardon, madam, but Master Richard is very ill.

Blanche. [Alarmed.] Richard!

Jordan. Yes, ma'am, and Droves is very frightened, ma'am.

Ruth. Richard ill?

[All give exclamations of surprise and regret and sympathy.

Blanche. My little boy ill? Excuse me, I must go to him.

[She hurries out at back. Ruth speaks to the musicians, who stop playing.

Sterling. [Moved.] My boy ill—why, I can't—I can't—

Warden. "Can't" what?