Susan.—Now we’ll get the decorations ready. (Takes up bowl of popcorn.) I know you young ladies will enjoy stringing these. (Bring pail of cranberries, needles and thread.)
Miss Priscilla (reluctantly).—I can hardly spare the time from my fancy work, as I know that my sister-in-law would be terribly disappointed if this scarf were not completed.
Miss Prudence.—It is really imperative that I finish this scarf for dear Reginald, so we will continue our knitting while the others make ready the decorations.
(Enter Miss Wise, Miss Markus and Rastus the porter, the latter carrying suit-cases.)
Miss Wise.—This really is an imposition, but when we saw the others crossing the fields to your delightful farm-house, we thought we would follow their example.
(Porter sets down suit-cases and extends his hand.)
Miss Wise.—Dear me, must I pay another porter?
(Miss Wise and Miss Markus give porter coins which he pockets with thanks.)
Rastus.—Dis sholy am a salubrious farm. Nice place for chickens. I wonder if dey’s all roostin’ now?
Susan (nervously).—I hope Abner locked that henhouse door!