I--I feel somewhat faint, Elizabeth.

ELIZABETH
(seeing nothing amiss).
Then sit at the table, dear Deborah, and a cup of tea will revive thee.

DEBORAH
(protesting).
No--! No--! I--I will help you to dress.

ELIZABETH.
Then who will serve Benjamin Franklin? Thee promised that thee would be
hostess, so unless aught is amiss----

DEBORAH
(recovering herself, and suddenly displaying a haughty self-
possession).
Naught is amiss, Elizabeth. I will serve tea if you bid me.

[Deborah sits at one end of the table, Franklin at the other.

ELIZABETH.
Thee knows the Friends' special meeting to-night is at the same hour as
that of the other churches, so when thee hears the church-bells ringing
'twill be time to prepare, sweet Deborah.

DEBORAH
(with a gleam).
I'll not forget the time. I promise you that, Elizabeth.