Dr. Van Hyde: But you must be very patient and kind; and, with your permission, I will take charge of her. My plan is to visit her, here at your house, twice, or perhaps three or four times a week. You will notice an improvement in her condition very soon.
Mr. Valdingam: Have your way, doctor. So long as my child is saved to me, that is everything. (Turning to Rose.) Rose, my pet, I hear that the doctor and you have become fast friends already. (Rose joins them at L. C., and Mr. Valdingam kisses and fondles her.)
Rose: Oh, yes, papa, Dr. Van Hyde and I are now very good friends.
Mr. Valdingam: That’s right—that’s right. Put your trust in him, my child. He has your interest at heart.
(Mr. Valdingam turns gleefully to Susan, and the two converse.)
Dr. Van Hyde (to Rose): You hear? He places you in my care.
Rose: I share his confidence.
Dr. Van Hyde: And—may I not hope to be—your nineteenth?
Rose: There has not yet been—a first.