Why, nonsense---- Gertrude. [_Unshaken_.] Oh, yes, George; I read it myself. And even if you do, George, I feel so--my love for you is so great, it could move mountains. I love you so dearly---- She will surely learn to forget you, I will love you so much. George. But, my pet---- Gertrude. No, no, George. You see, I don't blame you so much. How could I? For what am I, compared to other women?--George, does she love you so very much? George. Who? Gertrude. Oh, you know. But don't worry, George dear; she will forget you in time! Don't you remember Robert, our neighbor's son? He threatened to kill himself if I didn't marry him, and he has already forgotten me! And to-day, when we stand at the altar, at the Doxology and the exchange of rings, I will nudge you softly, and then we will both pray to our good Father in heaven to make it easy for her; for no one shall be unhappy on this day! Why, George, you are crying!!!! George. Crying--I? Gertrude. Why, yes! Here are two large tears running down your cheek. [_Wipes his eyes with her handkerchief_.] So there---- George. Tell me, my pet; and if we should be parted, after all? Gertrude. How could that be possible? George. If I should die--or---- Gertrude. [_Embracing him_.] No, no! Don't say that! Don't say that!!! [Marie _appears in door, seeing embrace_.] George. [_Startled_.] Some one is here---- Gertrude. It is only Marie. Marie. [_Pointedly_.] You seem to be particularly affectionate to-day. Gertrude. [_Miffed_.] We always love each other. Oh, perhaps that doesn't please you---- Marie. It is nothing to me! Gertrude. [_Half Jesting_.] Besides, what do you want here? Isn't there anything to do in the kitchen? Marie. [_Stung, but controlling herself_.] Mama has sent me---- Gertrude. Yes, yes, dear; you are just in time to dress my hair. Have you hairpins? Marie. [_Shaking her head_.] I will get some. [_Reels_.] Gertrude. [_Affectionately_.] What's the matter, dear? Oh, you must be tired! Marie. I am not tired. Gertrude. Yes, yes, you are. Now you sit down here. I will fetch them myself. [_Quick exit_.] Marie. [_Full of fear_.] Gertrude!!! George.