Mrs. Hunter. [Beginning to break down.] George! George!
[Ruth looks at her, furious, and bites her lips hard. Jessica is standing with her back toward them.
Mason. Well, then—
[He is interrupted by Mrs. Hunter, who sees Jessica.
Mrs. Hunter. Jess! How rude you are! Turn around this minute! [Jessica does not move.] What do you mean! Excuse me, Mr. Mason! Jess! Such disrespect to your father's will! Turn around! [Angry.] Do you hear me?
Jessica. [With her back still turned, her shoulders shaking, speaks in a voice broken with sobs.] Leave me alone! Leave me alone—
[She sits in a chair beside her and leans her arms upon its back and buries her face in her arms.
Blanche. [With her hand on her mother's arm.] Mother! Don't worry her!
Mrs. Hunter. Go on, please, Mr. Mason, and remember, spare us the details. What is our income?
Mason. Mrs. Hunter, there is no income.