forget--her condition. [The door from the study is opened and CURT
appears. His face shows his annoyance at being interrupted, his
eyes are preoccupied. They all turn and greet him embarrassedly.
He nods silently and comes slowly down front.]

CURTIS--[Looking around.] Where's Martha? What's the important
thing she called me out for?

ESTHER--[Forcing gaiety.] To play host, you big bear, you! Don't
you think we came to see you, too? Sit down here and be good. [He
sits on sofa.]

EMILY--[Softly.] Martha had to leave us to go motoring with Mr.
Bigelow.

ESTHER--[Hastily.] And the three children.

CURTIS--[Frowning grumpily.] Hm! Big and his eternal kids. [He
sighs. They exchange meaning glances. CURT seems to feel ashamed
of his grumpiness and tries to fling it off--with a cheerful
smile.] But what the deuce! I must be getting selfish to grudge
Martha her bit of fresh air. You don't know what it means to
outdoor animals like us to be pent up. [He springs to his feet and
paces back and forth nervously.] We're used to living with the sky
for a roof--[Then interestedly.] Did Martha tell you I'd
definitely decided to go on the five year Asian expedition?

ESTHER--Curt! You're not!

EMILY--And leave Martha here--all alone--for five years?