Page:Poet Lore, volume 35, 1924.pdf/543

 Johnny (Correcting).—My dearest uncle

Hans.—That’s more like it, you precious boy.

Johnny.—I knew the wish by heart, but I just forgot.

Hans.—I accept your wish with all my heart before you recite it, my dear little fellow. (Kisses him.)

Ann (Anxious).—If you intend to catch that train, you’d better go.

Hans.—You are right, by all that’s sacred. (To .) Cheer up! We want a bright and sunny face for this journey. Be happy—all of you. (To, as if to kiss her, but seeing her distress, kisses her hand instead.) And you (To .) I am not saying that we shall not see each other again, Johnny. Now up, and off we go! (Once more he steps to the window and looks at the body.) Andrew, just throw three clods on the box for me. You will be my representative at the funeral. If I stay another moment I shall smother. (Out through the wicket.)

Ann (To ).—Good bye, my Julia, my little sister.

(All but speed the parting guests beyond the gate. He remains standing in the full light of the risen sun.)

Hans (Already beyond the gate).—A brief St. John’s Eve have I spent in my father’s house. What I seemed to have lost last night, I have found again this morning. Between the rising and setting sun Now westward, Ho! Good bye, Potsedin! (Exeunt, and .)

( and stands at the gate waving a long good bye.)

Johnny (Running to and throwing his arms around his neck).—Me he wouldn’t, but that kid he takes with him!

John (Folding him tenderly).—Never mind, sonny.

( comes back slowly, and lays her hand on head gently. Gratefully surprised, he catches her hand and presses it to his lips.)