Part 78 (1/2)

[_John enters. He is rather pale, seems pre-occupied and even more unapproachable than ever._

LEt.i.tIA

Did you have a pleasant stroll?

JOHN

I wasn't walking.

LEt.i.tIA

I shall go into the house, I think.

JOHN

No, Aunt Let.i.tia, I would rather you'd wait, if you please.

[_Nathaniel is an interested spectator. He cannot understand why Jonathan should be present for what will probably be an eventful family scene._

Nathaniel, will you sit down?

NATHANIEL

Certainly.--Where?

JOHN (_tartly_)

Would you like my chair?

NATHANIEL

Thank you.

[_He sits in John's chair, much to John's annoyance._

JOHN

Jonathan, sit down.

[_Jonathan sits. John also sits. Aunt Let.i.tia knows what to expect.

Nathaniel is more curious than angry. Jonathan is attending his first family conference._

Jonathan, I've sent for you because I want to talk to you seriously.

JONATHAN

Yes, sir.

NATHANIEL