Lydia. Well, you do believe in preparation. I can't see why you are being so beforehanded, but if it gives you any pleasure to scare me to death——
Joe. It certainly does, Lydia. And just one thing more, I want of you.
Lydia. What?
Joe [rather shyly]. Take the Bible and read something to bind the promise. Just any verse.
Lydia. This is becoming too solemn. I don't care for it.
[She approaches the lyre table, upon which, of course, is a Bible, and opens the book.]
Joe. Then I'll be ready to go.
Lydia [looking at him sharply]. Go?
Joe. Upstairs.
[Lydia turns the leaves of the Bible.]