Hattie and Bea. on couch; all surprised; Niobe advances.
Car. Sit down, Miss Mifton!
Nio. Thank you! I am not tired, and stand to take mine ease.
Hel. I wish to ask you a few questions, Miss Mifton, to see if you are capable of the training and instruction of the young. You write and cypher, of course? I need not ask?
Nio. (standing C.) I would not then. Why speak of what is needless!
Hel. (after business of looking at Niobe) What is your definition of Geography?
Nio. It matters not since I am authorized—to bow my will to yours; what you would have it—say—and that it is.
Helen turns and looks at Carrie.
Hat. (laughing) Just the thing for you Helen; you can have it all your own way, (an educational Phonograph). You breathe in what is to be learned, and she’ll breathe it out again.
Hel. (R. C.—to Carrie) This sounds like prevarication. (to Niobe) You would not have me describe the divisions of the land and sea; tell you the names of the Continents.