Wheeler. Then, you miserable cur, I'll be revenged. (rushes at Graef who retreats a little. Pete draws huge butcher knife and runs to Graef's side)
Pete. Pull on him, Massa George, pull on him, I'se wid yo'! (holding knife aloft dramatically. At sight of knife Miss Amelia has slight attack of hysterics, throws both arms around the Deacon's neck and chokes him. The Deacon struggles to release himself. Parson B. stoops behind Miss A. and tries to make her dress shield him. Wheeler stops suddenly)
Enter Officer, L. 2 E.; approaches Wheeler softly.
Graef. He's not worth the effort, Pete. Officer, arrest that man.
Officer. (seizing Wheeler from behind) George Darrah, I arrest you for the crime of theft. (Wheeler struggles. Graef helps Officer handcuff him. The Deacon unloosens Miss A.'s arms, when her head falls upon his right shoulder. The Deacon supports her drooping form by placing his right arm around her waist. Mrs. T. rises)
Wheeler. What is the meaning of this indignity?
Graef. You will soon know. (to Mrs. T.) Aunt, there stands the George Graef who stole your diamonds!
Pete. Say, Massa George, what do yo' think his picture will look like now, arter it's took, eh? (Graef smiles. Pete crosses to Parson B. and makes feint to stab him with knife. Parson sinks almost to knees, manifesting great fear. Aside) He kin teach others how to die bravely, but he skeers when deff comes nigh him.
Mrs. T. (to Graef) I don't understand you.
Graef. George Darrah, there, known to you as Mr. Wheeler, is the thief you thought was myself. (to Wheeler) Do you require proof to that effect?