The first effect of the lifting of the curtain is to
focus attention upon the slight droop of the little figure
in the chair. As much beauty and grace as it is pos-
sible to muster should go to the forming of this brief
picture.

Elfrida is arranging flowers on the table: Jack is
assisting. In a second, the door, right, front, opens
and Mrs. Bird enters. The droop disappears, and Carol
is erect and aglow with Christmas interest.

CAROL. (with a happy smile of greeting, holding out
one hand). Is Daddy coming up, mother?

MRS. BIRD (turning her head so that Carol does not
see the wrinkle of worry which the question brings).
He may -- later (quickly), but not while they're
eating.

( Carol looks a bit disappointed. Mrs. Bird
crosses to her quickly.)

JACK. (Steps forward from behind the screen. He
frowns, but then smiles at Carol and says lightly.)

That's lucky, Carol; and very considerate of Daddy.
Could they eat if dignified old Don stood looking on?
I hardly think so.

CAROL. (considering this point carefully). Y-e-s, --
I had n't thought of that. If you did n't know Daddy
-- he might -- frighten you. I almost wish we had
asked Dr. Bob to come to dinner. He is such fun,
and he's one of the family now!

MRS. BIRD. He is coming for the games, you know,
later on. He would n't miss the pleasure for the
world!

ELFRIDA (coming out from behind the screen). The

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