Warden. I don't know; I'm waiting word from Mason.
[The sleigh-bells stop.
Blanche. [Excited.] But we can't wait here doing nothing; we must go, too!
Warden. Mason is doing all that can be done; we'd better wait here.
[He takes her hand in sympathy, but without suggesting the passion of a few moments before. Sterling enters hurriedly Left. He is wild with drink and jealousy.
Sterling. Drop my wife's hand!
[They turn in great surprise.
Blanche. Dick!
[Fright at his appearance is mingled with her surprise.
Warden. [At the same time as Blanche.] Sterling!