Page:Sherlock Holmes - A Drama in Four Acts - Doyle, Gillete - 1922.djvu/118

114 You mean—Miss Faulkner? (Going to lower corner of desk.)

(turning suddenly to ). Watson, she trusted me! She—clung to me! There wero four to one against me! They said "Come here," I said "Stay close to me," and she did! She clung to me. I could feel her heart beating againat mine—and I was playing a game! (lower parenthetical) a dangerous game—but I was playing it!—It will be the same to-night! She'll be there—I'll be here! She'll listen—she'll believe—and she'll trust me and I'll—be playing—a game. No more. I've had enough! It's my last case!

Oh well! what does it matter? Life is small affair at the most—a little while—a few sunrises and sunsets—the warm breath of a few summers—the cold chill of a few winters (Looking down on floor a little way before him in meditation.) And then

And then?

And then.

(going to ). My dear Holmes—I'm afraid that plan of gaining her confidences and regard went a little further than you intended.

(mutters after nodding). A trifle!

For her or for you?

For her (looks up at slowly) and for me.

(astonished. After an instant's pause). But if you both love ench other

(putting hand on to stop him sharply). Sh! Don't say it! (Pause.) You mustn't tempt me with such a thought. That girl! young exquisite just beginning her sweet life I seared, drugged, poisoned, almont at an end! No! no! I must cure her! I must stop it, now—while there's time! (Pause.) She's coming here.

She won't come alone?

No, Térèse will be with her.