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MRS. HAWKINS

Oh, Si. Si— I won't complain, but it's hard, very hard.

(Covers face.)

HAWKINS

Oh! don't grieve so, [Nancy.] I can't bear it . I'm a fool, [a heartless wretch.] [There, there, I'll run after him,] he shall have it at his own price, at half his own price.

(Starts to go. SELLERS sees him.)

SELLERS

Si! Si! Where're you going? You're not going to sell that Tennessee land?

HAWKINS

Indeed I am!

SELLERS

Don't be preposterous , remain where you are. Thank heaven I'm here to save you.

HAWKINS

Why! What do you mean?

SELLERS

Why, you're going to get three millions for that property, the thing's good as done.

HAWKINS

Tell me about it. Quick!

SELLERS

Si, you're an old friend of mine, [and] I'll let you into a secret.

LAURA

A secret? May we know what it is?