MRS. BAXTER (_aside_). Oh Lord, she must be mad. If I try to escape I shudder to think of the results. (_Telephone rings loud and long_)
MISS PRUNE. Why don't she come up, whoever she is? I can't go down to her. (_Telephone rings_) Now this is too bad, the poor bo----
MRS. BAXTER (_edging away_). Perhaps if you take up that receiver (_Points to 'phone_) that ringing will cease.
MISS PRUNE (_crosses to 'phone_). Well now, who'd ever have thought it was this ringing? (_Through 'phone_) Hello--_Hell-O_--Yes--_Yes_--_Yes_. She'll be right back.... Well, in about an hour's time. (_MRS. BAXTER frightened_) Hold the wire then until she returns. Call soon again. Good luck to you. (ENTER MISS WORKER) Well, how-do-you-do? Come right in. Here, be seated. Let me take your hat----
MISS PRUNE. Now don't say a word. Make yourself comfortable. Are you acquainted with this woman? (MRS. BAXTER) No? Oh, goodness, what is your name? Oh, never mind, I've got your card. Mrs. John Baxter, meet--oh, what is your name? (MISS WORKER) Nevertheless, pull your chair up closer to Mrs. Baxter and engage in conversation. I've got a letter to write.
MISS WORKER. This is indeed a pleasure to meet one who is so well known in society. I presume you are Mrs. Baxter, the wife of Senator Baxter?
MRS. BAXTER (_cuttingly_). You are correct in your supposition.
MISS WORKER. Perhaps, then, you can help me in my work by contributing to a new home being erected for homeless men.
MRS. BAXTER. Really! I am not interested.
MISS WORKER. Surely you will not refuse money for such a noble cause. Why just this past winter we have housed----
MRS. BAXTER (_yawns_). I have no doubt. If you go around to my residence, my secretary shall attend to you.
MISS WORKER. Oh, but how much better would it be to receive it direct from you. Just think of the benefits and blessings that God would shower down upon you if you gave with your own hands out of a charitable heart a few of your earthly goods.
MRS. BAXTER (_yawns_). Really I am sure it would be delightful. But I have told you what to do; so do it or not, just as you wish.
MISS WORKER. Ah, my dear Mrs. Baxter, I cannot believe----
MARY. Hello, everyone. Where's Miss Berning?
MISS PRUNE. Not in at present. But make yourself at home.