(MISS PHOEBE, once so ready of defence, can say nothing.)
MISS SUSAN (to the rescue). It is Livvy's own wish that he should not be consulted.
Miss WILLOUGHBY (looking longingly at the door). May I go in to see her?
MISS SUSAN. I fear not, Mary. She is almost asleep, and it is best not to disturb her. (Peeping into the bedroom.) Lie quite still, Livvy, my love, quite still.
(Somehow this makes PATTY smile so broadly that she finds it advisable to retire. MISS WILLOUGHBY sighs, and produces a small bowl from the folds of her cloak.)
Miss WILLOUGHBY. This is a little arrowroot, of which I hope Miss Livvy will be so obliging as to partake.
MISS SUSAN (taking the bowl). I thank you, Mary.
PHOEBE (ashamed). Susan, we ought not——
MISS SUSAN (shameless). I will take it to her while it is still warm.
(She goes into the bedroom. MISS WILLOUGHBY gazes at MISS PHOEBE, who certainly shrinks. It has not escaped the notice of the visitor that MISS PHOEBE has become the more timid of the sisters, and she has evolved an explanation.)