(Pauline seated, with some bit of embroidery, or other fancy work. Aunt P. is seated, also, as curtain rises, but during the conversation moves about a good deal, rather nervously.)

Pauline. What’s the matter, Aunt Polly? What makes you so restless? Don’t you feel well?

Aunt P. Yes, I think so. I—I’m nervous, I think.

Pauline. I didn’t know you were ever nervous, Auntie.

Aunt P. Why, I’m not, as a rule, Pauline. I don’t know what is the matter, I’m sure.

Pauline. Hadn’t you better go to bed, Auntie, and sleep it off?

Aunt P. No, I couldn’t sleep, I’m sure.

Pauline. You haven’t had bad news, have you?

Aunt P. Why, no, dear, not exactly.

Pauline. Not exactly? You’ve had some news then that disturbs you?