Sue expresses concern to Mr. Behrman about Johnsy's despondency and her belief that the last ivy leaf's fall signals her impending death. Mr. Behrman suggests a mural to lift Johnsy's spirits, providing a hopeful alternative to her morbid fixation.
Sue: Mr. Behrman, have you noticed how Johnsy's been lately? She seems so despondent.
Mr. Behrman: Yes, Sue, I've seen it. Something's bothering her. What's going on?
Sue: She's convinced that when the last ivy leaf falls, she'll... she'll...
Mr. Behrman: Go on, Sue. What does she think will happen?
Sue: She believes she'll die, Mr. Behrman. It's that silly pneumonia she had.
Mr. Behrman: Pneumonia can leave a mark on the soul as well. We need to lift her spirits.
Sue: I've tried everything – talking, comforting. Nothing seems to work.
Mr. Behrman: Maybe it's time for a change of scenery. How about I paint a mural on that blank wall outside her window?
Sue: A mural? That might just do it. It could give her something positive to focus on.
Mr. Behrman: Let's give it a try, Sue. A burst of color might be the antidote she needs.