I caught sight of you from over there.
But then you must have seen her too?
I knew she would go at once if I came.
Is it very painful for you that she should avoid you in this way?
In one sense, it's a relief as well.
Not to have her before your eyes?
Yes.
Not to be always seeing how heavily the loss of the little boys weighs upon her?
Yes. Chiefly that.
[HILDA drifts across the verandah with her hands behind her
back, stops at the railing and looks out over the garden.