ROGER. Then ask friend Franklin if he'll sup with us. Tell him we, too, would hear the news from Boston--that he'll confer a favor if he'll come. And mind, no hint about an empty purse! I fear at first I put the matter clumsily. Give him my later message. That is all. WILLIAM. I will, sir. [Exit, with a flourish, right background ROGER. I hope he comes. ELIZABETH (fondly). 'Tis ever like thee, Roger, to have a care for the friendless and forlorn. WILLIAM (knocking, opening door from hall, and announcing). Benjamin Franklin, Journeyman! [Enter Franklin, shabby, travel-stained, and boyishly appealing. Exit William. ROGER (stepping hospitably forward). I bid thee welcome, friend Franklin. I hear thee is from Boston, and come to search for work in Philadelphia. Will thee not sup here? We are ever anxious for news such as travelers may bring. This is my wife, Elizabeth Burchard, and she will make thee welcome. I mind me of the time when I was once a stranger. Will thee not do us the pleasure to sup with us? FRANKLIN. I scarcely, sir, know how to thank you for such kindness. All Quakers must be kind, I think, for it was a Quaker who directed me hither. [Franklin crosses to fire, Roger taking his hat from him. In brief pantomime behind Franklin's back Roger has indicated that Franklin is to take his place at table, and that he himself will sup no further. During the conversation that follows Elizabeth is taking fresh silver out of a quaint basket that is on the table, Franklin stands at fire, and Roger is seated at right. ELIZABETH. Perhaps my husband can advise thee further where best to look for work upon the morrow. FRANKLIN. I thank you. I will hear him gladly. He that cannot be counseled cannot be helped. [Footnote: From Franklin's "Poor Richard's Almanac".] ROGER. Thee means to seek for work at once, I see. FRANKLIN. Lost time is never found again, and since time is of all things the most precious, I am loth to lose it. [Footnote: From Franklin's "Poor Richard's Almanac".] ROGER. There is a wise head upon thy shoulders, friend. (Indicates table, and rises.) Sit thee down, lad. Sit thee down. ELIZABETH (hurrying to hearth where kettle stands). Alas! I have forgotten the kettle! The tea is not yet ready. (To Roger.) Do thee and Benjamin Franklin talk while I prepare it. Show him the volumes lately come from London. Thee knows the print and paper is most pleasing. [Roger Burchard and Benjamin Franklin sit at right in the high-backed chairs, the volumes upon their knees. That they are true book-lovers is instantly apparent. They are lost to everything that goes on about them. They sit with their backs towards the door at left, quite screened from the view of any one entering there. There is a pause. Then Deborah Read taps softly at the door at left. Elizabeth turns and opens the door. DEBORAH (finger on lip). S-ssh! Not a word! (Glances towards the back of Roger's chair.) I've crept up the stairs on tip-toe!