Fair. I am so glad. Oh, Bev, it broke my heart! I felt as though we couldn't give George, too.
Bev. But we must think first of the South. We've given Phil and George now—father, if it must be—and then I'll go; but he and I'll come back to you.
[Enter at the back Mrs. S. and Charlotte; they walk hand in hand. Charlotte wears a black dress like Fair's. Mrs. S. wears the costume she wore in Act I. Charlotte's color has come back, and she seems almost herself save for a slightly strained note in her voice.
Char. We are so glad to find you here. We came to see what had been left us—not very much. Well, we four are still together, and we have the home.
Mrs. S. This does not matter; we must not think of little things. But we have father yet, and Carter and Gordon. God willing, we will have them safe again with us.
Char. (softly, with deep, tender emotion). And George, mother, we have him still; he is not gone. I tell you, my own sweetheart is not away, and every day that passes brings me nearer to him. For he is still my own true George; he's with me now; yes, now. And I may keep him ever with me, here.
[She softly lays her hand over her heart.
Mrs. S. (gently drawing her nearer). My own dear daughter, may we have strength to feel he is not gone. Dear child, you have shown us all how George would have us live.
[She kisses her.