Ebeling.
(Regards her confusedly, then approaches her.) Dear child! That wasn't my intention! (Laying his hand on her shoulder caressingly.) My dear, dear child!
Margot.
(Grasps his hand, and presses her cheek to it. As he tries to free it, she holds it the more closely.) Oh, don't leave me. I'm so lonely!
Ebeling.
My dear, dear child. (He bends down to her and kisses her on the brow. She throws her arms about his neck and draws herself close to him. He kisses her lips. She lets her head fall heavily upon his shoulder and remains motionless while he caresses her gently. With a sudden impulse she flings him from her, and sinks back in the chair.) Margot, my darling. Have I hurt you? Are you offended at what I did? If I've misunderstood, if I have abused your confidence, I earnestly beg you to forgive me.
Margot.
Oh, I've so hungered--so hungered--for this--kiss!
Ebeling (turning eagerly toward her).
Margot!