And in the second place, I will have none other than you. We will love each other very much. At first you will be my playmate--and then--later, perhaps--my real mate. Are you satisfied? Gertrude. Yes, dear! George. And now, you must go to bed! Gertrude. Then I will wrap myself in my hair--and I will dream of you and what you said--that it is beautiful--and so I will fall asleep. Good-night, George dear! George. [_Kisses her on the forehead_.] Good-night! [_He gloomily takes position at table with a sigh when_ Gertrude _exits, covering his face with his hands_. Marie _enters softly_.] George. Marie, you have come---- Marie. It is early yet, is it not? George. We have a full hour more. Have they all gone to bed? Marie. I think so. All the lights are out. George. Come, sit here---- Marie. I--I--I think I will go back upstairs! George. No, no; here is something to read! You see, I'm reading myself. Marie. Very well. [_Sits_.] But, George, I would really prefer to go to the depot alone. George. [_Softly_.] Marie! [_She shuts her eyes_.] Are you tired? [_She shakes her head_.] One whole hour I will have you all to myself! Marie. George---- George. Marie!!! Marie. The fires have all gone out, I suppose? George. Ah, yes; a small pyre of wood--it is soon burned down! Marie. And then it's as dark as ever!!! But, George, how beautifully you spoke this evening! I have never heard anything like it before. George. You were the only one who understood me. Marie. No wonder! It was as though I spoke the words myself--that is, I don't mean to say---- George. What, dear? Marie. Oh, you know! George. But I don't know! Marie. [_After a pause_.] George, I have something to confess to you. In fact, that is why I came down here so soon. You shall know it, you alone. I have this day given my hand---- George. [_With a start_.] _Marie!!!!_ Marie. [_Astonished_.] Well? George. To whom? Marie. Why, to the pastor! Who else could it be? There is no one else! George.