George.

Marie, my love! [Strokes her hair affectionally, then moves away.] No, no, we must be strong! Only a few minutes ago, Gertrude came softly down those stairs; if she should come again--my God----!

Marie.

What did she want?

George.

You can imagine----

Marie.

The poor thing! But you will love her?

George.

As well as possible! But then I must not think of you.