MICH. (bending over her with great tenderness). I know what you have suffered this morning. I would willingly have borne it for you, but that would not have made reparation to those whom you have deceived, or given you peace in your own soul. (She continues sobbing.) Hush! Hush! All the bitterness is past! Look only to the future! Think of the happy newness and whiteness of your life from this moment! Think of the delight of waking in the morning and knowing that you have nothing to hide! Be sure you have done right to own your sin. There won’t be a softer pillow in England to-night than the one your head rests upon. (She becomes quieter. MICHAEL turns to the Sister.) Watch over her very carefully. Keep her from brooding. Let her be occupied constantly with work. And write to me very often to tell me how she is. (Turns to ROSE.) The carriage is ready. It’s time to say good-bye.
ROSE. Good-bye, sir. Thank you for all your kindness. I’ve been very wicked——
MICH. Hush! That is all buried now.
ROSE. Good-bye, father.
(Throws her arms round ANDREW’S neck, clings to him, sobs convulsively for some moments in a paroxysm of grief. MICHAEL watches them for some moments.)
MICH. (intercepts, gently separates them). It’s more than she can bear. Say good-bye, and let her go.
ANDR. (breaking down). Good-bye, my dear! (Kissing her.) Good-bye—I—I—I——
(Tears himself away, goes up to window, stands back to audience.)
MICH. (To ROSE.) No more tears! Tears are for evil and sin, and yours are all past! Write to me and tell me how you get on, and how you like the work. It will bring you great peace—great peace. Why, you are comforted already—I think I see one of your old happy smiles coming. What do you think, sister, isn’t that the beginning of a smile?