Page:Strange Interlude (1928).djvu/187

Rh ately—? And you expect me to—? What do you think I am?

[Inflexibly]

You’re my lover! Nothing else matters. Yes, I remember what Sam’s mother said. She said, “being happy is the nearest we can come to knowing what good is.” And I’m going to be happy! I’ve lost everything in life so far because I didn’t have the courage to take it—and I’ve hurt everyone around me. There’s no use trying to think of others. One human being can’t think of another. It’s impossible.

[Gently and caressingly]

But this time I’m going to think of my own happiness—and that means you—and our child! That’s quite enough for one human being to think of, dear, isn’t it?

[''She reaches out and takes his hand. A pause. With her other hand she gently pulls him around until he is forced to look into her eyes'']

[Thinking fascinatedly]

I see my happiness in her eyes the touch of her soft skin! those afternoons! God, I was happy!

[In a strange dazed voice—as if it were forced out of him by an impulse stronger than his will]

Yes, Nina.

[In a determined voice]

I’ve given Sam enough of my life! And it hasn’t made him