Thornton. I could not help it, Jessie. (Tries to take her hand.)
Jessie. Do not touch me. I shall hate you. Leave me. O Harry, Harry! are you lost to me forever? (Staggers up and sits on bench.)
Thornton (aside). I've broken the ice there. Rather rough; but she'll get over it. Now for old Maynard. I'd sooner face a regiment; but it must be done. (Exit into house.)
Kitty (comes down to Jessie). O Jessie, this is terrible!
Jessie. Don't speak to me, Kitty: leave me to myself. I know you mean well, but the sound of your voice is terrible to me.
Kitty (comes down). Poor thing! Who would have believed that Harry Maynard could turn out bad? I wish I could do something to help her. I can, and I will too. Oh, here's Tom! (Enter Tom from house; sees Kitty, stops, then sticks his hat on one side; crosses to l. whistling.)
Kitty. Tom!
Tom (turns). Eh! did you speak, Miss Corum?
Kitty. Yes, I did. Come here—quick—why don't you pay attention?
Tom. Didn't you forbid any further attention?