Part 12 (2/2)

_Jack._ I've done nothing to deserve a hand!

_Belle._ You showed me a little kindness. Can't you understand how that might be worth something?

_Jack (looking at her keenly)._ When you're sick and discouraged and lonely--yes. _(with sudden intensity)_ By Jove, I _do_ understand!

I've wandered up and down these streets all day and all night, and I never dreamed of such loneliness! I could have gone and drowned myself in the river.

_Belle._ I've thought of that too--but did you ever go and look in?

It's even more lonely in the river.

_Jack (hesitates)._ I wish you'd let me be a friend of yours _(laughs with a touch of embarra.s.sment)._ It's a queer way to get an introduction.

_Belle._ I don't mind that. I can see when a man is straight--when I can trust him.

_Jack (looks about)._ Well, I suppose I've got to go _(hesitates)._ Gee! _(looks outside)._ Brr-r! It's cold out there!

_Belle._ Have you no place to go?

_Jack._ I have not _(starts, then hesitates)._ Gee! I wish I had a job here. Somehow it seems kind of homelike in this place!

_(pantomime showing Jack's reluctance)._ Well--I suppose I've got to go on. Say--do you suppose they need another waiter here.

_Belle._ I don't know. You might ask.

_Jack (goes to Schimidt)._ I say, Mr. Schmidt, you couldn't use another waiter here, could you?

_Schmidt._ I could not. Move along now, or I call anodder police!

_Jack (returns to Belle)._ Gee, it must be tough for a girl like you to be ordered about by a great hulking brute of a Dutchman who has no thought in the world but his cash-drawer! Well, I've got to go.

May I come here to eat some time--if I can get the money?

_Belle._ Yes, surely.

_Jack._ Well, good-bye!

_Belle._ Good-bye _(she staggers slightly and he looks at her sharply)._

_Jack._ Why, what's the matter with you?

_Belle._ Nothing. I'm--I'm just a little weak _(catches herself by the chair)._

_Jack (supporting her)._ Why--she's fainting! Here! _(To Schmidt)_ Bring me some water. She is ill.

_Belle (feebly)._ No! I'm all right!

_Jack (to Schmidt)._ Hand me that water here. Quick, man! _(Schmidt obeys, dazed by his vehemence.)_ There, that's better? _(Settles Belle in chair.)_ Didn't you know the girl was ill?

<script>