[Minty-Malviny sobs for a moment or two,
but quickly falls asleep, breathing deeply
and quietly. LeBreton comes forward
and stands perplexed.
LeB. Well, I reckon Santa Claus will have to call for help. Laura can't have gone to bed yet.... I'll get her. [Exit, returning almost at once with Laura.] That's good! Come in a moment.
Laura [anxiously]. Oh, Henri, what is it?
LeB. [laughing]. A trifle! [Puts his hand on her shoulder.] My pack has given out, and I'm 'bleeged to have a big wax doll, like whar in de show-winder, and a cheer, and some dishes, lak ole Miss's on de plantation; and all for a 'spectable young cullud pusson named Minty-Malviny!
Laura [mystified]. Henri! I don't understand.
LeB. No, but you will in a moment. See what I found when I came in. [Leads her over to rug, lifts corner of coat, and discloses Minty-Malviny fast asleep.] Isn't this your little waif, Laura?
Laura. Yes. But what in the world has she been doing to herself?
LeB. Sh-sh! Don't waken her! [They speak in lowered voices.] Why, she was waiting for Santa Claus, and her past experience of the old gentleman's impartiality seems to be responsible for an experiment. Anyway, she popped up and assured me that she was er white chile sho's I was bawn, and her name was Miss Ann. But it stuck in her throat——
Laura [laughing]. No wonder!
LeB. And she presently broke down and wailed that she warn't fitten ter hev no Christmas gift. Now, do you suppose you can find anything for her?