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[_John enters. He is rather pale, seems pre-occupied and even more unapproachable than ever._
LEt.i.tIA
Did you have a pleasant stroll?
JOHN
I wasn't walking.
LEt.i.tIA
I shall go into the house, I think.
JOHN
No, Aunt Let.i.tia, I would rather you'd wait, if you please.
[_Nathaniel is an interested spectator. He cannot understand why Jonathan should be present for what will probably be an eventful family scene._
Nathaniel, will you sit down?
NATHANIEL
Certainly.--Where?
JOHN (_tartly_)
Would you like my chair?
NATHANIEL
Thank you.
[_He sits in John's chair, much to John's annoyance._
JOHN
Jonathan, sit down.
[_Jonathan sits. John also sits. Aunt Let.i.tia knows what to expect.
Nathaniel is more curious than angry. Jonathan is attending his first family conference._
Jonathan, I've sent for you because I want to talk to you seriously.
JONATHAN
Yes, sir.
NATHANIEL
Do you think the boy is strong enough?
JOHN
The doctor told me today that he would be quite equal to it.... Eight weeks ago, Jonathan, you made an effort to run away from your home, because I punished you. In your foolish defiance of all family authority you suffered a fall that might have resulted in a lasting and serious injury.
Fortunately you have recovered fully from the result of your fall.
NATHANIEL
Excuse me, John, but all of us know this.
JOHN
One moment, please, Nathaniel.... I have now arranged that you begin your preparation for your life work immediately. You will leave for Somerset School the day after tomorrow.
JONATHAN (_desperately_)
Uncle John, I don't want to go to Somerset School.
JOHN
You will leave for Somerset day after tomorrow. Good night, Jonathan.
NATHANIEL
Why Somerset?
JOHN
Good night, Jonathan.
[_Jonathan, dazed, goes out._
NATHANIEL
Jonathan will never go to Somerset School.
JOHN
Nathaniel, you forfeited your rights in the family councils when you ran away from home seventeen years ago.
NATHANIEL
This boy will run away again and again and I mean to save him from what I have suffered, if I can.
JOHN
Nathaniel, by what right do you attempt to interfere with my decisions?
