(Aunt Rebecca and Slim go out, Back. In the course of a brief interval Lucy Belle enters stealthily, Back,—dishevelled and terrified. She moves agitatedly about the room, twining and intertwining her fingers. Presently Sam enters, Back.)

SAM

Lucy Belle!

LUCY BELLE (in tremulous tones—as she pulls herself together with a mighty effort)

Sam-boy!

SAM

Was’n’ gwine ter take no chances.

LUCY BELLE (avoiding his direct gaze)

No, no! Honey-baby! Mah ole budigee honey-baby! I’se so scar’t I did’n’ know w’at ter do.