Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/315

 from afar off, but to those of us who toil in humble spheres, to us… to us… love is our glory, the glory of the poor, of the outcast. It is a glory which lies very near at hand, and for that reason it strikes so quickly to the heart.

. But did you ever doubt that that glory would be yours, that you were assured of Carmen's love and the children's?

. I feared for them; but I never doubted for myself. So I waited—as Isabel is waiting now. That is why I told you that you knew nothing of her heart, as you know nothing of mine.

. You never spoke like this to me before. How should I know? You are right; we never learn to know each other fully, or if we do, it is too late.

. Pardon, sir. [Offering a card] A gentleman to see you. If you cannot receive him, he will wait, or he will come back when you are ready, sir. He must see you.

. [Offering the card to ] "Adolphe Barona." I am not at home.

. He knows that you are at home, sir.

. I cannot see him.

. It is only a question of time, if he is determined. Better face the situation and learn what he wants—an explanation, no doubt, sufficiently annoying and unpleasant. Shall I receive him?

. No, but you might remain. If you do, the interview will be less embarrassing and more brief. Show him in.

. Gentlemen!… You have quite recovered, I trust?

. Thank you, in part.