and cool and comfy. [He bends down and kisses her.] And now will you promise to go right to sleep if Dada takes you to bed? [Mary nods sleepily.] That’s the good little girl. [He gathers her up in his arms carefully and carries her into the bedroom. His voice can be heard faintly as he lulls the child to sleep. Ruth comes out of the kitchen and gets the plate from the table. She hears the voice from the room and tiptoes to the door to look in. Then she starts for the kitchen but stands for a moment thinking, a look of ill-concealed jealousy on her face. At a noise from inside she hurriedly disappears into the kitchen. A moment later Robert reenters. He comes forward and picks up the shoes and stockings which he shoves carelessly under the table. Then, seeing no one about, he goes to the sideboard and selects a book. Coming back to his chair, he sits down and immediately becomes absorbed in reading. Ruth returns from the kitchen bringing his plate heaped with food, and a cup of tea. She sets those before him and sits down in her former place. Robert continues to read, oblivious to the food on the table.]
Ruth—[After watching him irritably for a moment.] For heaven’s sakes, put down that old book! Don’t you see your dinner’s getting cold?
Robert—[Closing his book.] Excuse me, Ruth. I didn’t notice. [He picks up his knife and fork and begins to eat gingerly, without appetite.]
Ruth—I should think you might have some feeling for me, Rob, and not always be late for meals. If you
