anxious to know the particulars.

RICHARD. Psha! not I: he doesn't know; and I don't care.
(Violently.) Be off, you oaf. (Christy runs out. Richard adds, a
little shamefacedly) We shall know soon enough.

ANDERSON. Well, perhaps you will let me bring you the news
myself. Judith: will you give Mr. Dudgeon his tea, and keep him
here until I return?

JUDITH (white and trembling). Must I--

ANDERSON (taking her hands and interrupting her to cover her
agitation). My dear: I can depend on you?

JUDITH (with a piteous effort to be worthy of his trust). Yes.

ANDERSON (pressing her hand against his cheek). You will not mind
two old people like us, Mr. Dudgeon. (Going.) I shall not say
good evening: you will be here when I come back. (He goes out.)

They watch him pass the window, and then look at each other
dumbly, quite disconcerted. Richard, noting the quiver of her
lips, is the first to pull himself together.

RICHARD. Mrs. Anderson: I am perfectly aware of the nature of
your sentiments towards me. I shall not intrude on you. Good
evening. (Again he starts for the fireplace to get his coat.)

JUDITH (getting between him and the coat). No, no. Don't go: