Helena. Nana, no more people are being born.
Nana. That’s the end, then? (Removing spectacles) We’re done for.
Helena. Don’t talk like that.
Nana. No more people are being born. That’s a punishment, that’s a punishment.
Helena. Nana!
Nana. (Standing up) That’s the end of the world. (Repeat until off. Picks paper up from floor. She exits L.1.)
Helena. (Goes up to window) Oh, Mr. Alquist. (Alquist off L.2.) Will you come here? Oh, come just as you are. You look very nice in your mason’s overalls. (Alquist enters L.2, his hands soiled with lime and brick dust. She goes to end of sofa and meets him C.) Dear Mr. Alquist, it was awfully kind of you, that lovely present.
Alquist. My hands are soiled. I’ve been experimenting with that new cement.
Helena. Never mind. Please sit down. (Sits on couch. He sits on her L.) Mr. Alquist, what’s the meaning of Ultimus?