Page:Strange Interlude (1928).djvu/341

Rh

There’s something up some final accounting

[Thinking resignedly]

Well, let’s get it over then I can go back to work. I’ve stayed too long up here Preston must be wondering if I’ve deserted him.

[Then with a wondering sadness]

Is that my son? my flesh and blood? staring at me with such cold enmity? how sad and idiotic this all is!

[Putting on a tone of joking annoyance]

Your message was a godsend, Gordon. Those stupid people with their social condolences were killing me. Perhaps I’m morbid but I always have the feeling that they’re secretly glad someone is dead—that it flatters their vanity and makes them feel superior because they’re living.

[She sits wearily on the bench. sits on side of the recliner at right]

[Repelled by this idea—stiffly]

They were all good friends of Dad’s. Why shouldn’t they be sincerely sorry? His death ought to be a loss to everyone who knew him.

[''His voice trembles. He turns away and walks to the table'']

[Thinking bitterly]

She doesn’t care a damn! she’s free to marry Darrell now!

[Thinking sadly, looking at his back]

He’s accusing me because I’m not weeping well, I