If you only knew how eager I am to help you. But you won’t let me come near you. We’ve known one another for more than thirty years, Charlotte. Why do you put up a stone wall between us?
Mrs. Littlewood.
[Gently, as though she were talking to a child.] My dear, don’t worry your kind heart. If I wanted your help I would come to you at once. But I don’t. I really don’t.
[Mrs. Wharton hears her husband’s step on the stairs.
Mrs. Wharton.
Here is George. [Going to the window.] You can come in when you want to, John.
[The Colonel comes into the room. His face is a little whiter than it was two days ago, and there is in his eyes every now and then a haunted look.
Mrs. Wharton.
Charlotte Littlewood is here, George.
Colonel Wharton.