Austin. [In weariness, in disgust, in utter hopelessness.] No! what's the use. You've done it now—let it go! Let it all go—the whole thing! What's the use!—it's finished!— [A knock on the door at Right.] Come in!
[Maggie enters and closes the door behind her.
Maggie. Please, sir, Miss Chester came upstairs and made me knock again to see if there was an answer and if you will see her now or not.
Jinny. [Suddenly—aflame with her idea.] Yes! Maggie, show her in!
Austin. No, no! What do you want to do! I'll see Miss Chester to-morrow, Maggie.
[Jinny has crossed to the door, Right.
Jinny. Ruth! Ruth!
Ruth. [Off stage.] Yes? May I come?
Jinny. Do come in!
[She recrosses room; she and Austin face each other for a second.