There is silence between them for a little. Then he says timidly.

abud. May I come near to you?

ann. [In a low voice.] Come.

He sits beside her, gazing.

abud. Wife . . I never have kissed you.

ann. Shut your eyes.

abud. Are you afraid of me?

ann. We're not to play such games at love.

abud. I can't help wanting to feel very tender towards you.

ann. Think of me . . not as a wife . . but as a mother of your children . . if it's to be so. Treat me so.