Nina
[In her cool tone]
Why, nothing. Nothing at all.
[She goes to him with a detached, friendly manner]
Did I seem rude, Charlie? I didn’t mean to be.
[She kisses him with a cool, friendly smile]
Welcome home.
[Thinking wearily]
What has Charlie done? . . . nothing . . . and never will . . . Charlie sits beside the fierce river, immaculately timid, cool and clothed, watching the burning, frozen naked swimmers drown at last. . . .
Marsden
[Thinking torturedly]
Cold lips . . . the kiss of contempt! . . . for dear old Charlie! . . .
[Forcing a good-natured laugh]
Rude? Not a bit!
[Banteringly]
As I’ve often reminded you, what can I expect when the first word you ever spoke in this world was an insult to me. “Dog” you said, looking right at me—at the age of one!
[He laughs. The Professor laughs nervously. Nina smiles perfunctorily]
Nina
[Thinking wearily]
The fathers laugh at little daughter Nina . . . I must get away! . . . nice Charlie doggy . . . faithful . . . fetch and carry . . . bark softly in books at the deep night. . . .
