[The NEIGHBOUR and AMELIA enter from the left.
NEIGHBOUR. Yes, child, there is justice, both human and divine, but we must have patience.
AMELIA. I am willing to believe that justice is done, in spite of all appearances to the contrary. But I cannot love my mother, and I have never been able to do so. There is something within me that keeps telling me that she is not only indifferent to me but actually hostile.
NEIGHBOUR. So you have found it out?
AMELIA. Why—she hates me, and a mother couldn't do that!
NEIGHBOUR. Well, well!
AMELIA. And I suffer from not being able to do my duty as a child and love her.
NEIGHBOUR. Well, as that has made you suffer, then you will soon—in the hour of retribution—learn the great secret of your life.
AMELIA. And I could stand everything, if she were only kind to my children.
NEIGHBOUR. Don't fear on that account, for her power is now ended. The measure of her wickedness has been heaped full and is now overflowing.