Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Third series (IA playstranslatedf03benauoft).pdf/178

. Pepe is a nice boy, after all.

. After all?

. At first sight you might think he was lightheaded, talking as he does, and pretending that all the girls are in love with him.

. He is not bad-looking, so no wonder. Besides, he is clever. I must get my sewing.

. Don't sew any more, my dear. You are not well. How are you now? Why don't you go to bed?

. No, I couldn't sleep.

. Well, don't sew. I don't want you to overdo; you have enough with the housework. I wish the weather would improve, and then we could go out for a walk in the afternoons. We stay indoors too much—not that I care, I don't feel it myself; I grow stronger every day, by God's grace, apparently. But you, my dear, are nothing but bones; you don't eat.

. I haven't any appetite.

. That reminds me, your tonic has given out. We must send for another bottle to-morrow.

. No, mamma, it doesn't do any good; it is only an expense. I'll be better soon; I must get strong, so that I can help you, and work.

. My poor child, you mustn't think of such a thing.

. Yes, mamma; when Julio marries, he won't be able to help you any more, although he may not admit it. Even if he could, his wife wouldn't let him. A daughter-in-law isn't the same thing as a daughter.

. No, and, anyway, I couldn't accept it. Does he think that is what I have on my mind? What difference does it make? I might be willing to swallow my pride for your sake, but I am accustomed to it. You were babies