Fires of St. John Part 19

Marie.

Yes, papa.

Brauer.

And Gertrude dear, you can go and help her. It is time you were learning to do something yourself.

Gertrude.

Yes, papa!

Marie.

I hardly think it will be ready in time to take with you and mama.

Brauer.

Then bring it later--yourself.

Marie.

[_With a glance at_ George.] Could not Gertrude bring it, papa? I have so much work to do!

Gertrude.

No, no, papa!!!

Brauer.

Yes, yes, you shall!--bring it up when done; and mind, you remain at the pastor's as long as your mother and I, this time. Understand?

Gertrude.

Oh, papa dear! The last time, the old pastor insisted upon holding my hand in his so long; and they are so cold and clammy, so shriveled and hairy, like the hands of the dead!

Brauer.

Come here, my child. Those hairy hands once christened you, and at your confirmation the same shriveled hands were laid upon your head and invoked for you the blessings of heaven; and would you, after all that, refuse to hold them in your own warm young hands? My daughter, I do not wish to hear that again. [_Kisses her_.]

Marie.

[_Slowly has approached_ George. _Softly, aside to him_.] You will do as I ask?

Brauer.

And now, leave us.

[Marie _and_ Gertrude _exit_.]

"Now, then, comes your turn," says the stork to the worm.

George.

[_Looking after the girls, turns_.] I suppose so, but take a care, uncle, I am not so easily digested.

Brauer.

We shall see! We shall see!

George.

What do you want with me? My financial condition is satisfactory. I have a good position, and my future is a.s.sured. I desire to enjoy the results of my own labors, not those of yours.

Brauer.

So, so!

George.

Yes, dear uncle. If you were so determined upon giving a large dowry, you should have found another husband for Gertrude than myself.

Brauer.

[_Riled_.] Oh, hang you and your confounded pride!

George.

Yes, I am proud; and because of my pride and determination, and, I may say, defiance, I have become what I am!

Brauer.

[_Rather arrogantly_.] And was there no diligence?

George.

That, also, was nothing but defiance.

Brauer.

I almost believe you are determined to create another rumpus, as you did twelve years ago.

George.

If necessary, yes!

Brauer.

And was it necessary, even then?