THE FRIEND
What’s wrong, Minnie?
MINNIE
My mother is dying.
THE FRIEND
Let me help you with the work.
MINNIE
My children are here. Please speak to your grandmother.
THE CHILDREN
You have been no help with the party I am planning.
MINNIE
I am sorry.
THE CHILDREN
It is important, for my husband’s work.
MINNIE
I am sorry. Your grandmother has died.
(THE CHILDREN softly weep.)
THE FRIEND
Attend to your children. I’ll prepare the body.
MINNIE
Allow me. The work soothes me.
* * *
THE FRIEND
What’s wrong, Minnie?
MINNIE
My husband is dying.
THE FRIEND
Let me help you with the work.
MINNIE
My children are here. Won’t you make amends with your father?
THE CHILDREN
It is not the right time.
MINNIE
He cannot help when he dies.
THE CHILDREN
He is careless. When is my turn?
MINNIE
Your father has died. I am sorry.
(THE CHILDREN softly weep.)
THE FRIEND
Attend to your children. I’ll prepare the body.
MINNIE
Allow me. It is a comfort.
THE FRIEND
Do you miss your dead?
MINNIE
Their mouths were like baby birds'.
THE FRIEND
And now they are shut. Your children are a comfort.
MINNIE
I have children.
(They look at each other.)
* * *
MINNIE
What's wrong, my friend?
THE FRIEND
I am dying. I'm sorry.
MINNIE
It was you I loved.
(THE MOTHER softly weeps.)
THE END
