Page:Beyond the Horizon (1920).djvu/169

Rh

from the truth. So you’ll be punished. You’ll have to suffer to win back [His voice grows weaker and he sighs wearily.] It’s no use. I can’t say it. [He lies back and closes his eyes, breathing pantingly.]

—[Slowly.] I think I know what you’re driving at, Rob—and it’s true, I guess. [ smiles gratefully and stretches out his hand, which takes in his.]

—I want you to promise me to do one thing, Andy, after—

—I’ll promise anything, as God is my Judge!

—Remember, Andy, Ruth has suffered double her share, and you haven’t suffered at all. [His voice faltering with weakness.] Only through contact with suffering, Andy, will you—awaken. Listen. You must marry Ruth—afterwards.

—[With a cry.] Rob! [ lies back, his eyes closed, gasping heavily for breath.]

—[Making signs to her to humor him—gently.] You’re tired out, Rob. You shouldn’t have talked so much. You better lie down and rest a while, don’t you think? We can talk later on.

—[With a mocking smile.] Later on! You always were an optimist, Andy! [He sighs with exhaustion.] Yes, I’ll go and rest a while. [As comes to help him.] It must be near sunrise, isn’t it? It’s getting grey out.

—Yes—pretty near. It’s after six.