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344 Please, Mother, I’m not as bad as that! I know you’re the best woman that ever lived—the best of all! I don’t even except Madeline!

[With a sobbing triumphant cry]

My dear Gordon! You do love me, don’t you?

[Kneeling beside her and hissing her]

Of course!

[Pushing him away—tenderly]

And now go! Hurry! Madeline is waiting! Give her my love! Come to see me once in a while in the years to come! Good-bye, dear!

[Turning to, who is standing with a sad resigned expression—imploringly]

Did you still want to tell Gordon something, Ned?

[Forcing a tortured smile]

Not for anything in the world! Good-bye, son.

Good-bye, sir.

[He hurries off around the corner of the house at left, rear, thinking troubledly]

What does she think I am? I’ve never thought that! I couldn’t! my own mother! I’d kill myself if I ever even caught myself thinking !

[He is gone]