Sterling. No!
Warden. [Losing entirely his self-control.] What do you want to make you fight—will that?
[He gives him a stinging blow in the face.
Sterling. Yes!
[He springs toward Warden as Ruth and Mason enter Left. The two men stand rigid, Warden breathing heavily.
Ruth. Blanche, may I bring in—where's Blanche?
Sterling. I don't know.
Mason. Good morning, gentlemen.
[There is no response. Warden is with great difficulty restraining himself. His lips are compressed lightly and his hands clenched.
Ruth. What's the trouble?