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II] felt for you was a passing thing which might ruin your happiness and his career.

Well, Robert. It was unkind of you towards me. But I forgive you because you were thinking of his happiness and mine.

[Bending closer to her.] No, Bertha. I was not. And that was my treason. I was thinking of myself—that you might turn from him when he had gone and he from you. Then I would have offered you my gift. You know what it was now. The simple common gift that men offer to women. Not the best perhaps. Best or worse—it would have been yours.

[Turning away from him.] He did not take your advice.

[As before.] No. And the night you ran away together—O, how happy I was!

[Pressing his hands.] Keep calm, Robert. I know you liked me always. Why did you not forget me?

[Smiles bitterly.] How happy I felt as I came back along the quays and saw in the distance the boat lit up going down the black river, taking you away from me. [In a calmer tone.] But why did you choose him? Did you not like me at all?

Yes. I liked you because you were his friend. We often spoke about you. Often and often. Every time