The Lady.
But still you must
In reason have known something—must have heard
Or else imagined—
The Maiden.
For three months no word
Until this letter; from its page I learned
That my poor Willie had but just returned
To the brigade, when struck down unaware.
It seems he had been three months absent.
The Lady.
—Where?
The Maiden.
They did not say. I hope to bear him home
To-morrow; for in truth I scarce could come,
So ill my mother, and so full my hands
Of household cares; but, Willie understands.
The Lady (thinking).
Ciel! faith like this is senseless—or sublime!
Which is it?
(Speaks). But three months—so long a time—