Fires of St. John Part 36

George.

Uncle----

Brauer.

See here, perhaps I did wrong?

George.

You--wrong? How?

Brauer.

Have you forgotten what pa.s.sed between us yesterday?

George.

My dear uncle, that seems to me so far, far away!

Brauer.

It strikes me you are going at a pretty fast gait!

George.

At any rate, uncle, do not worry about it. It will all come out right in the end. [_As he is listening towards the door, gives a sudden start_.]

Brauer.

What's the matter?

George.

I thought I heard some one----

Brauer.

Some one of the family perhaps, upstairs. Very well, then all is well, my boy! Good-night, my son.

George.

Good-night, uncle!

[Brauer _exits, shaking his head_.]

George.

[_Sits at table--tries to read--listens, goes to door C.--calls out softly into the garden_.] Who is there? [_Still softer_.] Is that you, Marie?

Gertrude.

[_Whining outside_.] It's only me!

George.

[_Surprised_.] Gertrude, what do you want?

Gertrude.

[Gertrude _enters in nightgown and flowing hair_.] I am so uneasy, George dear; I just wanted to look at you once more before going to sleep.

George.

But, little one, if papa should see you like this---- Quick, go back to your room.

Gertrude.

I cannot, my heart is so heavy.

George.

How so, dear?

Gertrude.

George, I have been thinking; I really am not good enough to be your wife.

George.

Wha--what nonsense----

Gertrude.

I am too silly--oh, yes; I never know what to say to you! I am so stupid.

George.

Why, my child--darling--pet----

Gertrude.

A while ago, out in the garden, and the moon s.h.i.+ning so brightly, you walked by my side in deep silence----

George.

Why, mama was with us----

Gertrude.