they do. [As a shriek comes from outside--excitedly.] Ah, Eddy
discovered her behind the tree. Isn't he tickled now! [He turns
back from the window and lights a cigarette--enthusiastically.]
Jove, what a hand she is with children!

CURTIS--[As if the subject bored him.] Oh, Martha gets along well
with anyone.

BIGELOW--[Sits on the couch again--with a sceptical smile.] You
think so? With everyone?

CURTIS--[Surprised.] Yes--with everyone we've ever come in contact
with--even aboriginal natives.

BIGELOW--With the aboriginal natives of Bridgetown? With the well-
known Jayson family, for example?

CURTIS--[Getting to his feet--frowning.] Why, everything's all
right between Martha and them, isn't it? What do you mean, Big? I
certainly imagined--but I'll confess this damn book has had me so
preoccupied--

BIGELOW--Too darn preoccupied, if you'll pardon my saying so. It's
not fair to leave her to fight it alone.

CURTIS--[Impatiently.] Fight what? Martha has a sense of humor.
I'm sure their petty prejudices merely amuse her.

BIGELOW--[Sententiously.] A mosquito is a ridiculous, amusing
creature, seen under a microscope; but when a swarm has been