[Tantalising Jerry]: And in love!

Dr. Wadham

He's still rich, and in love, and, I think, he's still happy.

Jerry

I've told you; he's a nut!

Mrs. Gilliam

I wonder if that's it. Don't laugh! He wasn't like this before he went overseas as chaplain. Is it possible he was gassed—or something?

Clare

Here's another armful of presents.

Dr. Wadham

Oh, how do you do, Miss Jewett?

Clare

I'm very well, thank you.

Jerry

[Starting to her]: Hello, Clare! This is a——

Mrs. Gilliam

[Intercepting him C.]: Surprise! Ha! And you've been waiting for her half an hour!

Clare

[To Mrs. Gilliam]: I'm afraid we'll have to get Mr. Barnaby. There are so many packages.

Dr. Wadham

Can't I help?

Clare

Will you, Doctor? And Mr. Hinkle's in there praying for someone to consult about the Christmas music.

Dr. Wadham

I told Mr. Hinkle the choir'd better begin by singing, "Peace, Perfect Peace, With the Loved Ones Far Away."

Mrs. Tice

And, Doctor! About the Parish House ... shall I tell my husband you'll speak to Mr. Gilchrist?

Dr. Wadham

Yes, I think you may even tell him that's why we're here today. [He exits R.]

Mrs. Gilliam

Dilly, do hurry!

Mrs. Tice

Can't I drive you home?

Mrs. Gilliam

Thank you so much! Good-bye, Miss Jewett. Good-bye, Mr. Goodkind. We must arrange for you to come up to dinner as soon as the holidays are over. [He bows] Dilly, say "good-bye" to Mr. Goodkind!

Dilly

Goodbye-ee!

Mrs. Gilliam

Oh, Mr. Barnaby, how about the lights?

Mr. Barnaby

I think the trouble's outside.

Mrs. Gilliam

You'll be sure to fix it? [Mr. Barnaby nods.]

Mrs. Tice

And will you put us in the car? [Mr. Barnaby nods again, and goes L.] I rather dread that mob at the door. [She follows, groping in her bag for a bill to give Mr. Barnaby] Good-bye, Mr. Goodkind ... and Miss Jewett, and, if I don't see you tomorrow, a Merry, Merry Christmas!