D' you think—because I suffered when you were born and because I 've suffered since with every ache you ever had, that that gives you the right to dictate to me now? [In a dead voice.] I've been unhappy enough and I shall be unhappy enough in the time to come. [Meeting the hard wonder in Joy's face.] Oh! you untouched things, you're as hard and cold as iron!
JOY. I would do anything for you, Mother.
MRS. GWYN. Except—let me live, Joy. That's the only thing you won't do for me, I quite understand.
JOY. Oh! Mother, you don't understand—I want you so; and I seem to be nothing to you now.
MRS. GWYN. Nothing to me? [She smiles.]
JOY. Mother, darling, if you're so unhappy let's forget it all, let's go away and I 'll be everything to you, I promise.
MRS. GWYN. [With the ghost of a laugh.] Ah, Joy!
JOY. I would try so hard.
MRS. GWYN. [With the same quivering smile.] My darling, I know you would, until you fell in love yourself.
JOY. Oh, Mother, I wouldn't, I never would, I swear it.