Page:The Return of the Soldier (Van Druten).djvu/42

This page has been validated.

THE RETURN OF THE SOLDIER

his cousin . . . but me . . . his wife. No. I’m the stranger here . . . the only stranger . . . among you all. Are they coming?

Jenny (looking) : Yes.

[Kitty shudders and shrinks back against the fireplace, as though to huddle out of sight. Jenny stands, watching the window. Frank and Chris enter at the back. Chris stands a moment looking into the room, with a faintly puzzled expression. Then he sees Jenny. His face lights up and he moves to her, seizing both her hands.

Chris : Hullo, Jenny!

Jenny : Oh, Chris . . . I’m so glad!

[He looks at her, and his face changes.

Chris . . . is it so bad? Chris?

Chris : Bad? Why?

Jenny : Have I changed so much?

[Pulling herself up.

Oh, Chris, it’s so wonderful to have you safe.

Chris : Safe?

Jenny (choking) : Oh, Chris!

[She releases her hands and turns away in tears. There is a silence.

Frank : Chris . . .

[Chris turns. He sees Kitty. There is a horrible pause, while he looks at her blankly.

Chris : You . . . you are . . .

Kitty (weakly) : Yes. I am your wife.

Chris (kindly) : Kitty?

38