Sterling. To my boy and my wife.

Warden. Wait a minute; I want to speak to you.

Sterling. Speak to me later; I can't wait now.

Blanche. [Off stage, at back, excitedly.] Jordan! [She enters, excited, half hysterical.] Jordan! Where is Jordan? It was a lie! What did he mean? Richard is sleeping sweetly. The maid knows nothing of being alarmed! Where is Jordan?

[She starts to go toward the door Right.

Warden. [Stops her.] Mrs. Sterling, he had nothing to do with it! I told Jordan to say what he said.

[Blanche turns and looks at Warden in astonishment.

Sterling. [Stunned and at once suspicious.] What?

Blanche. But—

Warden. Forgive me for so cruelly alarming you; it was the only way I could think of for getting rid at once of your guests!