The Mousetrap

HELEN’s back is towardsANYA. She throws a quick glance over her shoulder.ANYAis not looking her way but is engrossed in her knitting.HELENtilts the bottle and empties all the contents into the glass, adds some water then takes the glass toANYA.

HELEN. (RofANYA) Here you are.

ANYA. Thank you, my dear. (She take the glass in her left hand and sips)

HELENstands upRofANYA.

It tastes rather strong.

HELEN. Four drops, you said?

ANYA. Yes, that’s right. (She drinks it down quickly, then leans back and puts the glass on her work-table)

HELEN, tensely strung up, stands watchingANYA.

The Professor works much too hard, you know. He takes more pupils than he ought to do. I wish—I wish he could have an easier life.

HELEN. Perhaps some day he will.

ANYA. I doubt it. (With a little tender smile) He’s so good to everyone. So full of kindness. He is so good to me, so patient. (She catches her breath) Ah!

HELEN. What is it?

ANYA. Just—I don’t seem to be able to get my breath. You’re sure you didn’t give me too much?

HELEN. I gave you the right dose.

ANYA. I’m sure—I’m sure you did. I didn’t mean—I didn’t think . . . (Her words get slower as she settles back almost as if she is about to go to sleep. Her hand comes up very slowly toward her heart) How strange—how very—strange. (Her head droops sideways on the pillow)

HELENmovesRofANYAand watches her. She is now looking frightened. Her hand goes to her face and then down again.

HELEN. (in a low voice) Mrs. Hendryk.

There is silence.

(A little louder) Mrs. Hendryk.