Augusta (who is a little behind George’s chair, gives Dr. Jonathan an agonized glance, which she transfers to Dr. Frye when he drops George’s wrist).  George!  George, dear!

   (Dr. Frye is silent Then Asher reenters.)

Asher (in a low tone, to Dr. Frye).  They think they can get New York within half an hour.

(Dr. Frye nods.  His attention is now fixed upon Dr. Jonathan, whose gaze is still focussed on George.  Asher and Augusta now begin to look at Dr. Jonathan.  Gradually, as though by the compulsion of Dr. Jonathan’s regard; George slowly opens his eyes.)

George (stammering).  Dr. Jonathan!

Dr. Jonathan.  I’m here, George.

George.  Is there-is there a strike in the shops?

   (Dr. Jonathan glances at Asher.)

Asher (hesitating, speaking with difficulty).  Don’t worry about that now, George.

George.  Why—­why are they striking?

Asher.  I’ll tell you all about it later—­when you feel better.

George (feebly, yet insistent).  I—­I want to know.

Asher.  We can’t talk about it now, my boy—­later.

George.  Did—­did you get my letter—­the letter in which I begged you—­

Asher.  Yes, yes—­I’ll explain it all tomorrow.

George.  I—­I may not be here—­tomorrow.  You didn’t do what—­I asked? 
It’s—­so simple—­when you’ve thought about it—­when you’ve fought for it.

Asher.  I—­I had a plan, George.  We’ll go over it

   (He approaches George.)

George (shrinking).  No—­no!

(Asher recoils.  Minnie Farrell appears, upper right, from the direction of the Common.  She carries a phial, a dropper and some water in a glass.  Seeing the group gathered about George, she hesitates, but Dr. Jonathan motions her to come forward.)

W—­who is that?  Minnie?

   (George makes an attempt to sit up, but his head falls back and his
   eyes close again.  Then Dr. Jonathan lays his hand on Dr. FRYE’s
   arm, as though to draw him aside.)

Dr. Frye.  Is this Dr. Jonathan Pindar?  I wondered if you were a relation—­(he glances at Asher)—­but I wasn’t looking for you in Foxon Falls.  If you have something to suggest—?

Dr. Jonathan ( taking the phial and the dropper from Minnie).  With your permission.  In any case it can do no harm.

Dr. Frye.  By all means:  If I had realized you were here—!

   (Asher looks on in astonishment.  Dr. Jonathan measures out a few
   drops of the liquid from the phial into the glass of water, which
   Minnie holds.)