Look, then, here at my side
His letters—read them. Did he love me? Read!
Aha! you flush, you tremble, there’s no need
To show you more; the strong words blanch your cheek.
See, here his picture; could I make it speak,
How it would kill you! Yes, I wear it there
Close to my heart. Know you this golden hair
That lies beside it?
The Maiden.
Should he now confess
The whole—yes, tell me all your tale was true,
I would not leave him to you, sorceress!
I’d snatch him from the burning—I would sue
His pardon down from heaven. I shall win
Him yet, false woman, and his grievous sin
Shall be forgiven.
(Bows her head upon her hands.) O God let him die
Rather than live for one who doth belie
All I have learned of Thee!
Train stops suddenly.—Enter Conductor.
Conductor.
The bridge is down,
The train can go no farther. Morgan’s band
Were here last night! There is a little town
Off on the right, and there, I understand,
You ladies can find horses. Benton’s Mill
Is but a short drive from Waunona Hill.—
Can I assist you?
The Maiden.
Thanks; I must not wait. [Exit.
The Lady.