Enter Wheeler, door 2 E. L., with pitcher, one empty glass, and another glass filled with soda-water. Goes to table and places pitcher and empty glass upon it.
Wheeler. (filling glass) Here we are, with a drink like the nectar the gods used to brew. (handing Deacon glass) I can recommend it, for I helped to make it.
Deacon. You will not object if I take off my coat, will you! It's so warm. (removing coat. Wheeler takes it and hangs it over back of his chair. Deacon empties glass)
Wheeler. Certainly not; make yourself at home. (Refills Deacon's glass, and continues so to do as fast as the Deacon empties it. Sits and sips soda-water while talking. Invest this scene with as much naturalness and life as possible)
Deacon. As I told you, my brother Bill and I never made up after our first quarrel, but I'm not going to allow that to stand against his widow and daughter. No, sir. (emphatically) I intend to do the handsome thing by Helen. She's going to marry a Mr. Wheeler. Perhaps you know him? (Wheeler shakes head) No? I'm sorry, for folks say he's a mighty fine gentleman, and rich, too. (abruptly) Do you know Amelia?
Wheeler. Mrs. Thornton's sister?
Deacon. (eagerly) Yes, do you know her?
Wheeler. Oh, yes, very well.
Deacon. (rubbing hands) Fine woman, isn't she?
Wheeler. Indeed, she is. I don't know a lady whose opinion I respect more.