[_Softly and hesitating_.] But, George, dear, here in this house, I see nothing for you but love--the yoke seems so light---- George. How pious and tame you have suddenly become! Marie. I am not pious. George. What was that you said a few moments ago? "I am the calamity child. I am the child of misery; but I do not ask for charity." That is what you said of yourself, and it is also true of me. I, too, am a child of misery, a calamity child; but I am a subject of charity. I accept all they have to give--all--all--ha, ha, ha----! Marie. You, George, a calamity child? George. Yes! Was I not picked up from the street, as my uncle so kindly informed me for the second time--like yourself? Do I not belong to this house, and am I not smothered with the damnable charity of my benefactors, like yourself? Marie. I receive my share with thanks. George. And you enjoy serving---- Marie. I enjoy serving!! George. But I--I wish to rule--to command!!! Marie. And you shall rule--you shall command---- George. [_Walking about and ironically_.] Ah yes!!! Marie. [_Timidly_.] George? George. Well? Marie. [_The same_.] Pardon me; but have you forgotten--? George. Oh, I see! Marie. I know it is wrong in me to annoy you at this time, when you are so occupied with affairs of your own---- Besides, you have already refused me once---- George. Wha--yes, now in spite of them all, I am my own master. I am responsible to no one. I have promised you--I shall keep my word!!!!! Marie. Thank you, George! George. Oh, don't thank me---- Marie. Where is she now? George. She is waiting, behind yonder garden hedge. Marie. My God! Do not keep her waiting any longer; call her in here. George. Gertrude is still in the house. Marie. I will get her out of the way. When I appear out there on the veranda, the coast is clear!! George. Marie, for your own sake, I warn you for the last time; discovery means certain disaster. Marie. One disaster more or less, it matters little! George.