MRS. BORKMAN.
And where is she now?
MRS. WILTON.
She is sitting in the sledge waiting for us.
ERHART.
[In painful embarrassment.] Mother, surely you can understand?
I would have spared you all this—you and every one.
MRS. BORKMAN. [Looks at him, deeply pained.] You would have gone away from me without saying a good-bye?
ERHART. Yes, I thought that would be best; best for all of us. Our boxes were packed and everything settled. But of course when you sent for me, I—— [Holding out his hands to her.] Good-bye, mother.
MRS. BORKMAN.
[With a gesture of repulsion.] Don't touch me!
ERHART.
[Gently.] Is that your last word?
MRS. BORKMAN.
[Sternly.] Yes.
ERHART.
[Turning.] Good-bye to you, then, Aunt Ella.
ELLA RENTHEIM. [Pressing his hands.] Good-bye, Erhart! And live your life— and be as happy—as happy as ever you can.