EPHRAIM. And you're too hard. Matt and I were friends before you were born.

(Exit Ephraim. Guy moves impatiently, then sits on table. Enter Ruth.)

RUTH (surprised and not cordial). I thought you'd gone. I heard no voices.

GUY. I schemed to get them into there. Do you think I'd go without a word with you? (Approaching her.)

RUTH (coldly, holding him at arm's length). We've parted once to-night. What do you want with me?

GUY. I want everything except to part again. You witch, what have you done to me? I haven't a nerve but tingles for the touch of you. I'm all burnt up. The night's a tossing fever, and the day's a cruel nightmare till evening comes and brings me sight of you.

RUTH (backing). Don't touch me, please.

GUY. How long am I to hold myself in leash? It's more than flesh and blood can stand. My God, I wonder if you know how beautiful you are.

RUTH. I have a mirror in my room.

GUY. I'm jealous of that mirror, Ruth. Jealous of a piece of glass because it sees you every day.