Volume I Part 43 (1/2)

JOY. Yes.

d.i.c.k. Joy, what is the matter?

JOY. I 've got something to tell him.

d.i.c.k. What? [With sudden inspiration.] Is it about Lever?

JOY. [In a low voice.] The mine.

d.i.c.k. The mine?

JOY. It 's not--not a proper one.

d.i.c.k. How do you mean, Joy?

JOY. I overheard. I don't care, I listened. I would n't if it had been anybody else, but I hate him.

d.i.c.k. [Gravely.] What did you hear?

JOY. He 's keeping back something Uncle Tom ought to know.

d.i.c.k. Are you sure?

[Joy makes a rush to pa.s.s him.]

[Barring the way.] No, wait a minute--you must! Was it something that really matters?--I don't want to know what.

JOY. Yes, it was.

d.i.c.k. What a beastly thing--are you quite certain, Joy?

JOY. [Between her teeth.] Yes.

d.i.c.k. Then you must tell him, of course, even if you did overhear.

You can't stand by and see the Colonel swindled. Whom was he talking to?

JOY. I won't tell you.

d.i.c.k. [Taking her wrist.] Was it was it your Mother?

[Joy bends her head.]

But if it was your Mother, why does n't she----

JOY. Let me go!

d.i.c.k. [Still holding her.] I mean I can't see what----

JOY. [Pa.s.sionately.] Let me go!