MAGGIE [passionately to HETTY across back of table]. Give us the order. John is so despondent he can't endure much longer. Help us! Help me! Save us!
HETTY [to HARRIET]. Don't seem too eager.
HARRIET. And yet if he charges only a thousand one might consider it.
MARGARET. If you really wish to be painted, why don't you give a little more and have a portrait really worth while? John might be induced to do you for a little below his usual price considering that you used to be such good friends.
HETTY [in glee]. Hurrah!
HARRIET [quietly to MARGARET]. That's very nice of you to suggest—of course I don't know——
MAGGIE [in fear]. For God's sake, say yes.
MARGARET [quietly to HARRIET]. Of course, I don't know whether John would. He is very peculiar in these matters. He sets his value on his work and thinks it beneath him to discuss price.
HETTY [to MAGGIE]. You needn't try to make us feel small.
MARGARET. Still, I might quite delicately mention to him that inasmuch as you have many influential friends you would be very glad to—to——