Mrs. Fell. Where is Mrs. P., Paula?
Mrs. Ritter. She’s just gone out to the car, Nelly.
Mrs. Fell. [Stooping to pick up one of the chrysanthemums from the floor] Do you mind if I take one of these flowers, Paula? [She stands in the middle of the room, holding it, and looking at Mrs. Ritter.] I want it for my dramatic shrine.
Mrs. Ritter. You can take them all if you like.
Mrs. Fell. Why, what would you do, dear?
Mrs. Ritter. I don’t want them.
Mrs. Fell. [Crossing towards her] Now, you mustn’t feel like that, Paula Ritter.
Mrs. Ritter. [Having all she can do to keep from crying] I just can’t help it.
Mrs. Fell. I see in your husband’s attitude—nothing but a desperate attempt to save his home;—for he must know what your performance tonight will inevitably lead to. [Mrs. Ritter turns with a puzzled expression and looks at her.]
Mrs. Ritter. I don’t understand what you mean, Nelly.