Billy. (frantic with fear) Let go of me. Let go of me! (turns on Pete and strikes him several blows rapidly. Pete falls and Billy stumbles over him. Practice this scene well)
Billy. Oh, Lord, I'm dead—dead——
Pete. (springing to feet and assuming a pugilistic attitude. A thunder clap brings Billy to feet, thoroughly frightened. Faces Pete who advances upon him enraged) What did yo' do dat fo', eh? Say? What did yo' do dat fo'? (dances in front of Billy)
Billy. (backing) Was that you?
Pete. Ob co'rse it were, an' I'se gwine ter lick yo' for it, too.
Billy. I thought it were a spirit. What did you see?
Pete. Why, de mound whar de money is hid. Yo's a big coward, an' I's a great mind to knock de stuffin' out ob yo'. (advances upon Billy with fists up)
Billy. Don't Petey, please don't. I didn't hurt you. I'll not get scared again. Whar's the money? (picks up spade)
Pete. (mollified, pointing to L. 3 E.) Thar! an' if yo' don't git to diggin' fo' it, I'll lam yo' so bad dat de Deacon won't know yo' when yo' git home. (Billy starts toward mound, manifesting great fear. When near it, a clap of thunder causes him to drop the spade again and shake violently. Pete grabs him by the arm. Billy again picks up spade. Pete pushes him forward, talking as he does so)