Fires of St. John Part 26

[_Trying the door from the outside_.] The door is locked!

[Marie _opens the door_.]

Servant.

[_Enters with dishes_.] It is time to lay the table for supper--will you help me, please? Why, what's the matter? You are not listening to me----

Marie.

Never mind, Lena, I will set the table myself!

Servant.

Will you? Very well!!! [_Exit_ Servant.]

George.

[_Enters. To_ Marie, _who does not stir_.] Remember what I told you.

But come, come, this will never do! Don't stare at me like that----

Marie.

[_Leaning on him and weeping_.] Oh, George!

George.

[_Stroking her hair_.] That's it, dear, the tears will relieve you! Ah, I well know the anguish of an aching heart!

Marie.

Yes, you know, you know all! Now I have no one in this whole world but you--you alone. [_As she bursts out crying she throws herself on his breast_.]

George.

[_Stroking her hair_.] Yes, yes; we two understand each other. We two were meant, were intended for each other. Were we not, dear?

Marie.

My G.o.d! Yes!!

George.

And we will ever remember this day--the day that brought us together.

It is the day before St. John's Eve. Will you remember it, dear?

[_Short pause_. Marie _silent, then struggles to free herself_.]

Marie.

Don't, George! Go away! Please don't!

George.

[_Embarra.s.sed_.] But why should I suddenly go away, Marie?

Marie.

Go, George, I beg of you! I must lay the table!! Now go!

George.

Marie, you said yourself you had no one but me!

Marie.

If you do not want to despise me, please go----

George.

[_With forced laugh_.] I despise you? Very well--I'll go----

[_Turns once more in the door and hesitatingly exits_.]

[Marie _breaks down, weeping_.]

[_Curtain_.]

END OF THE SECOND ACT.

ACT THREE

_Same setting. Above the centre table a lighted hanging-lamp. Another lamp on table, L. The gla.s.s doors to garden are open. Full moons.h.i.+ne falls partly into the room. At rise of curtain, at table, L., are_ Brauer, Mrs. Brauer _and_ Pastor. _At centre table_, Gertrude _and_ George. _It is evening_.

Brauer.

Now, then, tell Marie to bring the bowl!

Pastor.

Ah! you are going to have a bowl?

Mrs. Brauer.