Miss Godesby. Women ought to have everything they own fastened to them with rubberneck elastics.
[The men, somewhat flustered, all rise with the various articles, and offer them to their respective owners.
[All the women thank the men profusely, and apologize at the same time. Sterling takes Mrs. Hunter out at back, followed by all the other couples, all talking. Ruth and Mason lag behind.
Ruth. [To Blanche, who with Warden waits for Ruth and Mason to pass.] I want just a minute with Mr. Mason, Blanche. [Blanche and Warden pass out before her. Ruth is alone with Mason. She speaks as if she were carrying on a conversation that had been interrupted. She speaks in a lowered voice, indicating the private nature of what she has to say.] I sent him imperative word yesterday I must have the bonds. I told him I wanted one to give to his wife for Christmas. He pretends to-day he didn't receive this letter, but he must have.
Mason. This makes the third time there has been some excuse for not giving you the bonds?
Ruth. Yes, and this letter he says he didn't get was sent to his office by hand.
Mason. I'll speak to him before I leave.
[They go out at back.
[As they pass out, Jordan stands by the doorway holding the curtains back. The other three men stand stiffly at the Right. As Mason and Ruth go out, the Servants relax and exchange glances, each giving a little laugh out loud, except Jordan. During the following dialogue they empty the table preparatory to arranging the room for the Christmas tree.
Jordan. Sh! A very dull dinner, not an interesting word spoke.