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[Thinking uneasily]

They’re talking about me why doesn’t he go? she doesn’t love him any more even now he’s all heat and energy and the tormenting drive of noon  can’t he see she is in love with evening?

[Clearing his throat uneasily]

Do I hear my name taken in vain?

[Looking at with a strange yearning]

Peace! yes that is all I desire  I can no longer imagine happiness  Charlie has found peace  he will be tender  as my father was when I was a girl  when I could imagine happiness

[With a girlish coquettishness and embarrassment—making way for him on the bench beside her—strangely]

Ned’s just proposed to me. I refused him, Charlie. I don’t love him any more.

[Sitting down beside her]

I suspected as much. Then whom do you love, Nina Cara Nina?

[Sadly smiling]

You, Charlie, I suppose. I have always loved your love for me.

[She kisses him—wistfully]

Will you let me rot away in peace?