Why Marry? Part 18

[_He scowls._

HELEN

Better not bully me, John.

[_She smiles._

JOHN

I am your brother.

HELEN

But not my owner! [_Then, instead of defiance, she turns with animated interest to the others._] You know, all women used to be owned by men.

Formerly they ruled us by physical force--now by financial force.... But at last they are to lose even _that_ hold upon us--poor dears!

[_Pats JOHN'S shoulder playfully._

JOHN

[_amused, but serious_]

That's all right in theory, but this is a practical world. My pull got you into the inst.i.tute; my pull can get you out. You give up this wild idea or give up your job!

HELEN

[_delighted_]

What did I tell you? Financial force! They still try it, you see. [_To JOHN._] What if I refused to give up either, John?

JOHN

[_emphatic_]

Then as a trustee of the inst.i.tute I ask for your resignation--right here and now! [_Turns away._] I guess _that_ will hold her at home a while.

HELEN

I simply _must_ go to Paris now. I've nothing else to do!

JOHN

[_with a confident smile_]

You will, eh? Who'll pay your expenses this time?

HELEN

[_matter of fact_]

Doctor Hamilton.

LUCY

Helen! please! You oughtn't to say such things even in joke.

HELEN

He'll take me along as his private secretary, if I ask him.

[_A pause. The others look at one another helplessly._

JUDGE

John, she's got you. You might as well quit.

JOHN

Nonsense. I have just begun. You'll see.

THEODORE

If you're so independent, my dear, why don't you marry your scientist and be done with it?

HELEN

[_resents the intrusion but hides her feelings_]

Can you keep a secret? [_They all seem to think they can and gather near._] He has never asked me!

[_The family seems annoyed._