Page:Playinthreexiles00joycrich.djvu/75

I]

[Gravely.] Bertha, take care of uttering words like that!

[Turning, excitedly.] I don't mean any harm! I feel for her more than you can because I am a woman. I do, sincerely. But what I say is true.

Is it generous? Think.

[Pointing towards the garden.] It is she who is not generous. Remember now what I say.

What?

[Comes nearer; in a calmer tone.] You have given that woman very much, Dick. And she may be worthy of it. And she may understand it all, too. I know she is that kind.

Do you believe that?

I do. But I believe you will get very little from her in return—or from any of her clan. Remember my words, Dick. Because she is not generous and they are not generous. Is it all wrong what I am saying? Is it?

[Darkly.] No. Not all.

[She stoops and, picking up the rose from the floor,