Scene.—Same as Act I.: three months later. Time—evening. Pete, as Buttons, discovered lighting the lamps; Polly arranging papers on table, and putting room in order, generally.
Polly. Now, Pete, make everything bright and cheerful. Mr. Roger is expected home to-night; we must do our share towards a warm welcome. The poor colonel is so unhappy. Between the treachery of his friend, and Mr. Roger's brave deed, he is torn with conflicting emotions.
Pete. I's powerful sorry for dear Massa Colonel. Wish I could do somefin for him.
Polly. You do your work well, that will satisfy him. (Takes banjo from corner.) But I tell you what, Pete, you can do something for me. Play a dance tune on this banjo. I haven't heard one since I left Oldtown. I can tell you what, Pete, I knew how to dance once.
Pete. Yer don't need to tell me dat, Polly; I kin see de dancin' peeking out ob yer shoes. What yer gwine ter have?
Polly. Give me a Virginia Reel. My gracious! I just adored that dance.
Pete. All right, Polly. You do der dancin', an' I play de tune. (Plays banjo.)
(Polly keeps time with head and hands; growing interested, enters into the dance; advances with right hand extended, pretends to swing partner; then left hand; then both hands; marches, slapping hands; grows more interested; finally swings Pete and banjo; then sinks into chair, laughing; Kil., in livery, appears at door, C.)
Pete (overcome with surprise). Golly, Polly, yer jest took my bref away. You must have been to a powerful heap of corn shuckings; an' de gennlemen dey must lub to dance wid you. Golly, 'specs dey don't all hab a 'sprise party like I did.
Polly. Pete, that was just glorious! I'm ever so much obliged to you for playing.