ESTHER—[With a sigh.] I thought I went through something when mine were born—but this is too awful.
EMILY—And, according to John, Curt actually says he hates it! Isn't that terrible? [After a pause—meaningly.] It's almost as if her suffering was a punishment, don't you think?
ESTHER—If it is, she's being punished enough, Heaven knows. It can't go on this way much longer or something dreadful will happen.
EMILY—Do you think the baby—
ESTHER—I don't know. I shouldn't say it but perhaps it would be better if—
EMILY—That's what I think.
ESTHER—Oh, I wish I didn't have such evil suspicions—but the way Curt goes on—how can you help feeling there's something wrong?
JAYSON—[Suddenly.] How is Curt?
EMILY—John just came in from the garden. [Turning around to where JOHN is dozing in his chair—sharply.] John! Well I never! If he isn't falling asleep! John! [He jerks up his head and stares at her, blinking stupidly. She continues irritably.] A nice time to pick out for a nap, I must say.
JOHN—[Surlily.] Don't forget I have to be at the bank in the morning.