love me at first . . . be happy only to take care of her . . . cook her breakfast . . . bring it up to her in bed . . . tuck the pillows behind her . . . comb her hair for her . . . I’d be happy just to kiss her hair! . . .
Marsden
[Agitated—thinking suspiciously]
What are Darrell’s relations with Nina? . . . close to what’s the matter with her? . . . damned thoughts! . . . why should I care? . . . I’ll ask this Evans . . . pump him while I have a chance . . .
[With forced indifference]
Is your friend, the Doctor, “close” to Miss Leeds? She’s had quite a lot the matter with her since her breakdown, if that’s what interests him!
[He smiles casually]
Evans
[Gives a start, awakening from his dream]
Oh—er—yes. He’s always trying to bully her into taking better care of herself, but she only laughs at him.
[Soberly]
It’d be much better if she’d take his advice.
Marsden
[Suspiciously]
No doubt.
Evans
[Pronounces with boyish solemnity]
She isn’t herself, Mr. Marsden. And I think nursing all those poor guys keeps the war before her when she ought to forget it. She ought to give up nursing and be nursed for a change, that’s my idea.
