(_Coming down to_ EVANGELINE.) If you've nearly finished, Vangy dear, do put the typewriter away. It looks so untidy.
EVANGELINE (_rather crossly, rising_). Of course I quite see that until my room's done, I shall never be able to do any work at all. (_Puts cover on typewriter, then pushes table up to back_ L.)
MRS. DERMOTT. Don't be cross, darling. You know how worried I am over everything this morning. It's one long rush.
EVANGELINE (_kissing her_). Sorry dear. I quite understand, only I must have this story sent to the _Clarion_ by Tuesday. If not, it won't be out until the August number.
MRS. DERMOTT. You're a dear darling, and you work terribly hard. I only hope you won't overdo it.
EVANGELINE. Oh no, these stories are only pot boilers. They just fill in the time until my next novel is ready.
BOBBIE (_suddenly._). Listen, don't you think this is a ripping change? (_He plays a few chords. He then sits back complacently._)
EVANGELINE. It sounds very much like everything else to me.
BOBBIE. Only because you haven't got any ear. As a matter of fact they're quite good chords. I shall put them into the new tomb-stone cycle.
EVANGELINE. Don't alter many of my words, will you?
BOBBIE. Not many, but the bit about "worms gnawing the grave of my beloved" is a little too gloomy. Couldn't you make it butterflies?
EVANGELINE. Don't be silly, Bobbie! butterflies don't live in graves. Well, you can use the first two verses as they are.
(_He starts to play again_, MRS. DERMOTT _is just going towards the stairs when there comes a ring and knock at the front door._)
JOYCE (_rising_). My goodness, the Crombies--I must go and wash. I'm covered in ink. (_Going to stairs._)
EVANGELINE (_down_ L. _of table_). I shouldn't worry, dear, they'll be so overdressed themselves they will amply make up for any deficiencies in our appearances.
JOYCE. I think I'd better go all the same. I must do my hair.
BOBBIE. Don't dazzle them too much, dear.
(_Exit_ JOYCE _upstairs._ GRIGGS _crosses in corridor to open front door._)
EVANGELINE (_going to corridor_). I'll be in presently, mother. I've left my note-book in the summer house, and I'm afraid of forgetting it.
BOBBIE (_still at piano_). You'll meet them on the doorstep.