Page:Playinthreexiles00joycrich.djvu/38

28

[Laying the flowers in her lap.] I am wondering if that is what you say—to the others.

[Surprised.] What others?

The other women. I hear you have so many admirers.

[Involuntarily.] And that is why you too ?

But you have, haven't you?

Friends, yes.

Do you speak to them in the same way?

[In an offended tone.] How can you ask me such a question? What kind of a person do you think I am? Or why do you listen to me? Did you not like me to speak to you in that way?

What you said was very kind. [She looks at him for a moment.] Thank you for saying it—and thinking it.

[Leaning forward.] Bertha!

Yes?

I have the right to call you by your name. From old