Margaret—(moodily), I notice that you do catch on to one once in a while. Well let’s hear it.
Helen—(aside in disgust) Now, wouldn’t that crimp you! She couldn’t find an idea all by herself in a thousand years. (Aloud). Why, I was just thinking that Lizzie would look quite pretty if she had a decent dress to wear and was fixed up some. Now, what’s to hinder you lending her one of your pretty dresses and doing her hair in some becoming fashion? I bet she wouldn’t look bad at all.
Margaret—Why, she wouldn’t. I’ll go right up now and do it (starts toward exit), or she’ll be coming down in some awful concoction of a dress. Oh, dear, I feel awfully nervous.
Helen—Did you hear what she said about nerves? The very idea, when nerves are all the go now. (Bell rings). Oh, there’s Edith now. I wish she had stayed away for half an hour longer.
Margaret—So do I. And however will I manage to fix Lizzie up now?
Helen—Talk for a few minutes and then excuse yourself and I’ll entertain Edith until you come back.
Margaret—(warmly) Helen, you’re a dear and just full of ideas. I don’t know what I’d do without you. (Goes out).
Helen—(aside dramatically), Behold the expanding of Miss Margaret Neilson’s character. She is actually wakening up to what I am trying to do for her and has even expressed one grain of gratitude. Well I guess I’ll hang on to the grain, perhaps it will sprout. (Sees Lizzie’s hat and fancy work.) Goodness I’d better get these out of sight or they’d be a sure giveaway. (Runs and thrusts fancy work under a cushion and throws hat behind couch. Margaret appears arm in arm with Edith who is well but quietly dressed. Helen goes to meet them.)
Margaret—You know Helen Montgomery don’t you, Miss Browning?
Edith—Oh call me Edith, it’s more sociable and I’ll call you Margaret. Why yes, (shaking hands with Helen), I have met you several times, haven’t I? Coming to a new city it takes a person quite awhile to get acquainted, but I’m managing not too badly.