RUTH. (dully) Yes—I s’pose I ought. (After a pause—a sudden suspicion forming in her mind) What did Rob tell you—about me?
ANDREW. Tell? About you? Why, nothing.
RUTH. (staring at him intensely) Are you telling me the truth, Andy Mayo? Didn’t he say—I—— (She stops confusedly).
ANDREW. (surprised) No, he didn’t mention you, I can remember. Why? What made you think he did?
RUTH. (wringing her hands) Oh, I wish I could tell if you’re lying or not!
ANDREW. (indignantly) What’re you talking about? I didn’t used to lie to you, did I? And what in the name of God is there to lie for?
RUTH. (still unconvinced) Are you sure—will you swear—it isn’t the reason—— (She lowers her eyes and half turns away from him) The same reason that made you go last time that’s driving you away again? ’Cause if it is—I was going to say—you mustn’t go—on that account. (Her voice sinks to a tremulous, tender whisper as she finishes).
ANDREW. (confused—forces a laugh) Oh, is that what you’re driving at? Well, you needn’t worry about that no more—— (Soberly) I don’t blame you, Ruth, feeling embarrassed having me around again, after the way I played the dumb fool about going away last time.
RUTH. (her hope crushed—with a gasp of pain) Oh, Andy!
ANDREW. (misunderstanding) I know I oughtn’t to talk about such foolishness to you. Still I figure it’s better to get it out of my system so’s we three can be together same’s years ago, and not be worried thinking one of us might have the wrong notion.