[Lincoln shakes his head.
POLLY
(pouting).
That means you think you have to study. Oh, Abe—!
NANCY
(aside).
Don't tease him, Polly. After we've called for Jason and Lucy we'll come back this way—gracious! Look how the minutes are flying! We must be starting. Where did I put my cloak? Oh, here it is! Hurry, Amy!
[They all dart out the door with every sign of haste, little John following as fast as his legs can carry him. Sounds of laughter from without, growing fainter.
LINCOLN
(to himself).
A corn-husking—!
[Shakes his head. Goes over and gets a book and stretches out in front of fire. A pause.
NOCTAH
(quietly entering).