VANDERLIP
(Still playing innocent.)
Darned if I know.
FREDA
(Impressively.)
Because you are masculine. You strike the deepest chords of a woman's heart. Woman is weak. You are a wall of strength to her. You are something to cling to—big-muscled, strong, and brave. In short, because you are a man.
(He folds her to him.)
Dear, dear Floyd!
(She lies in his arms a long moment, both still on their respective chairs. Then she slowly and gently disengages herself, at the same time stealing a glance at the clock.)