Abner. Lord, Arey, what can I say to a thing like that?
Ber. (coming forward). Say you are a fortunate man to have such a daughter.
Abner. Yes, that’s what I ought to say. It’s true. I’m afraid I don’t realize how true. (Pats Ariel on the shoulder.) Run along, little girl, and be happy. (Ariel exits.) Captain Cranberry, I——
Ber. If you please, Abner, I don’t believe I can talk any more just now. If you’d just leave me up here alone for a while. It’s all right that you should have her. It’s you that’s been the real father to her. You have had the privilege that I have missed. You—you see she’s Alicia’s little girl and I’ve jest got to get over it, that’s all.
Abner (grasping his hand). All right. I won’t talk. Some day—later, I’ll try to tell you all that I feel.
[Exit.
(Ber. stands in the center of the room with bowed head.)
Ber. Alicia’s little girl! (Slight pause.)
Cyn. (outside). Arey! Arey! (Enters.) Land, Cap’n, I thought Arey was here. Are you here all alone?
Ber. (slowly). Yes, alone, Cynthy. The way I’ve lived the most of my life. The way I’ll always have to live it.