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You know why, Bertha. Ask yourself.

Yes, I know why. You knew the answer you would get. That is why.

That is not why. I did not even ask you.

Yes. You knew I would go, asked or not. I do things. But if I do one thing I can do two things. As I have the name I can have the gains.

[With increasing excitement.] Bertha, I accept what is to be. I have trusted you. I will trust you still.

To have that against me. To leave me then. [Almost passionately.] Why do you not defend me then against him? Why do you go away from me now without a word? Dick, my God, tell me what you wish me to do?

I cannot, dear. [Struggling with himself.] Your own heart will tell you. [He seizes both her hands.] I have a wild delight in my soul, Bertha, as I look at you. I see you as you are yourself. That I came first in your life or before him then—that may be nothing to you. You may be his more than mine.

I am not. Only I feel for him, too.

And I do too. You may be his and mine. I will