ROBERT. (breaking out—in an agonized voice) Do as you please, Andy; but for God’s sake, let’s not talk about it! (There is a pause. ANDREW stares at ROBERT in hurt stupefaction. ROBERT continues after a moment in a voice which he vainly attempts to keep calm) Excuse me, Andy. This rotten headache has my nerves shot to pieces.
ANDREW. (mumbling) It’s all right, Rob—long as you’re not sore at me.
ROBERT. Where did Uncle Dick disappear to this morning?
ANDREW. He went down to the port to see to things on the Sunda. He said he didn’t know exactly when he’d be back. I’ll have to go down and tend to the ship when he comes. That’s why I dressed up in these togs.
MARY. (pointing down the hill to the left) See! Mama! Mama! (She struggles to her feet. RUTH appears at left. She is dressed in white, shows she has been fixing up. She looks pretty, flushed and full of life).
MARY. (running to her mother) Mama!
RUTH. (kissing her) Hello, dear! (She walks toward the rock and addresses ROBERT coldly) Jake wants to see you about something. He finished working where he was. He’s waiting for you at the road.
ROBERT. (getting up—wearily) I’ll go down right away. (As he looks at RUTH, noting her changed appearance, his face darkens with pain).
RUTH. And take Mary with you, please. (To MARY) Go with Dada, that’s a good girl. Grandma has your dinner most ready for you.
ROBERT. (shortly) Come, Mary!