Page:Asch-God of vengeance.djvu/113



They want to turn me into a Rabbi's wife. Why didn't mamma marry early?

Hold your tongue, or I'll slap you black and blue! Just listen to what she's picked up in a single night!

Yes, I know everything now.

Let her alone! (With nervous haste.) I want to ask her only one thing. One thing only. Tell me the truth. . . I'll not beat you. I'll not lay a finger upon you. You're not to blame. (Almost unable to speak.) Tell me frankly, the — the — whole truth tell me. . . The truth. ..

What truth shall she tell you? What do you want of the girl?

I'm not asking you. . . (Arises, seizing Rifkele by the hand.) Don't feel ashamed before me. I'm your father. You may tell me everything. . . Speak openly. . . Are you — are you still as pure as when you left this house? Are