Page:Etta Block - One-act plays from the Yiddish (1923).pdf/15

 Not true—but once or twice a week—that’s the truth.

&ensp;(piously) May his merits be turned to our account in Heaven and protect and shield us!

&ensp;(hollowly) Well, they didn’t protect us!

Because you are a sinner, Gruna.

&ensp;(jumps up as if bitten by a snake) I?

You—the widow of a Scribe—and such a kosher scribe—should conduct herself otherwise. The children…

&emsp;(pointing to the curtain) Shh! Keep still!

She isn’t there!

Miriam’s lying down. Her head aches. Speak—lower.

&ensp;(approaches nearer to Gruna) A girl should be guarded—watched! I’d rend mine in pieces if…

&ensp;(pleadingly) Don’t tear at my veins! Speak to the point…

&ensp;(cynically) Why so eager for the joyful news?

Don’t tear my soul out, I ask you!