Marie.

No; but I did! And do I not earn it, as well as the little love I obtain in this house? I am "The Calamity Child"--and I do not ask for charity.

George.

You seem to be possessed of the very devil to-day!

Marie.

Perhaps!

George.

I implore you, do not insist. I fear the consequence. You will see! for whatever is done against nature, punishes itself.

Marie.

And is it against nature when a child cries out for its own mother?