Frankie: I’d rather you didn’t.

[They stand close, untouching and silent ... Mr. Freeman comes in.

Mr. Freeman: Hullo! Sorry! Thought you were upstairs. Your father’s back; the car’s out there. But, look here, you stay for a bit if you like. John can walk home with you.

Frankie: I think I’d better go with Dad.

[The gate wails and screeches—John hurries to the window.

Mr. Freeman: Who’s that?

John: Colin came back.

Mr. Freeman: Who’s Colin?

John: The man who was here just now.

Mr. Freeman: What’s he come back for?