Pete. Now, don't say yo' don't, fo' I know yo' do. (archly) I've seen yo' castin' eyes at me on de sly. (aside) What shall I say next! Oh, yes. (clears throat; aloud) Yo' can have me, I's willin'. (aside, disgustedly) She don't know how to lub. (aloud) Does yo' doubt my love fo' yo'? Go ask the dear little stars if I don't whisper yo'r name to them every mornin' an' at noon. (pause) Does yo' still doubt me?
Miss A. No—no—only——
Pete. (aside) She's gittin' up courage. (aloud) Only what, dearest? (gradually edges to side of Miss A.) Don't be afraid to speak, I'll not hurt yo'. Don't yo' lub me just a little wee bit?
Miss A. No—yes—I mean that——
Pete. (tenderly) Yo' mean that yo' will marry me if I'll wait a little while! Oh, but you are a darling! (places arm around Miss A.'s shoulder and attempts to raise her head. Miss A. makes faint resistance) Look up, Birdie, and give me one little kiss to seal the bargain. Just one.
Miss A. You are irresistible! (gently inclines head toward Pete with face averted. Gushingly) Do you really and truly love me?
Pete. With all my heart!
Miss A. Then kiss me. (turning quickly as in act of kissing, sees Pete, but does not recognize him. Falling in corner of sofa, she screams. Pete jumps up and quickly exits D. C.) Help! help! murder—help!
Re-enter Daisy, L. 2 E.; she has common apron on, sleeves rolled up, hands covered with dough and arms bearing flour marks; followed by Mrs. Thornton and Helen, both wearing common aprons.
Daisy. For goodness' sake, what is the matter?