Parson B. What, Pete in trouble again! (to Pete) What have you been doing now?
Pete. (in injured tone) I weren't doin' nuffin'. De Deacon dar was a-spoonin', (the Deacon frowns and starts for Pete, but is detained by Miss A. catching him by the arm. Pete starts to run up R.) an' cause I warned him of your approach to keep yo' from catchin' ob him, he got mad.
Miss A. There, Pete, that's enough. (to Parson B.) It was a little misunderstanding, that is all. (Deacon manifests a desire to reach Pete. To Deacon) Deacon, do be still. I think I hear the bride and groom coming.
Enter Mrs. Thornton and guests, if any, R. 2 E. They take places. Mrs. T. down L., guests up L. and R.; Miss Amelia, Deacon and Parson cross R.; Parson stands R. of Miss A.; Pete goes up R. near curtain. Orchestra plays a wedding march. After a few bars enter Helen D. C., arrayed in bridal robes, leaning on the left arm of Wheeler. Take positions directly in front of L. 2 E. door. Pete makes a low salaam as they enter, but shakes fist at Wheeler as he crosses to position. Parson takes book from pocket, steps in front of contracting parties, and proceeds with ceremony as music ceases. Pete peeps out D. C.
Parson. (reading from book) We are gathered together here in the presence of this company to join together this man and woman in the holy bonds of matrimony. If any man can show just cause why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter forever hold his peace—(during the delivery of this, Pete manifests uneasiness and occasionally glances around at D. C. When Graef enters he displays joy by rubbing hands gleefully)
Enter Graef D. C.; goes down C. Speaks as he comes forward.
Graef. One moment, Parson. I forbid this marriage.
Wheeler. On what grounds?
Graef. Aunt—Helen—you are being imposed upon!
Wheeler. (angrily) What is the meaning of this interference, sir?