Cyn. He wouldn’t let on if he did. My land, Arey, you ain’t told me a thing about yourself yet. Weren’t it hard to leave school? Won’t it make a difference when you go back?
Ariel. No, I can catch up with my class when I get my eyes again, and they bothered me so much I was rather glad to give up the fight and come home. There’s only one thing bothering me. Father says Nat Williams is expected home any day.
Cyn. (sharply). Well, what of it?
Ariel. You know what of it!
Cyn. Now see here, Arey, your father has surely got over that foolishness. As well as he loves you he won’t try to marry you to a man you don’t love. Didn’t say anything to-day, did he?
Ariel. No, only that Nat is coming and praised him to the skies, the way he always does. I can’t imagine why he cares so much for Nat.
Cyn. (decidedly). Well, you don’t have to even if he does. I don’t believe your father will start that thing to going again.
Ariel (with a sigh). If he does I had about as soon be dead. I owe so much to my father, and I want to please him but I never could make up my mind——(Stops abruptly.)
Cyn. No, of course you couldn’t. I never was struck on Nat myself. I can’t imagine what ails your father.
Ariel (rising). I must go back. Dad went to the store and I slipped out. (Takes her coat from chair and puts it on.) If he goes home and finds me gone such a night as this, he will sound the fire alarm and get out a searching party. (Kisses Cyn.) Good-night, Miss Cynthy. I—I—oh, I won’t say anything more to make you feel badly, but I can’t believe there is anything right about your going away. I’ll see you in the morning. Good-night. (Opens door, C.)