Mrs. C. And what does he mean by truth, Virginia?
Vir. O, I don’t know. When he is talking I understand, but when he is gone it all fades and I know nothing about it.
Mrs. C. Nor does Edgar, mark me, dear. He is trying to know things that the wise God decreed should remain unknown to mortals. That is what makes him so unhappy.... Did he eat his breakfast this morning, Virginia?
Vir. No, mamma.
Mrs. C. Did he take any food yesterday?... Tell me, daughter. I can not help you if I do not know. (Virginia begins to sob) There! there, darling! A little patience and we ’ll get him over this.
Vir. O, mother!
Mrs. C. Come here, my little girl. (Takes Virginia in her arms) Now tell me! Don’t let the heart go heavy when mother ears are waiting.
Vir. He ... goes out at night ... and I follow him because it kills me to think of him wandering alone. We were on Burney hill last night.
Mrs. C. Five miles!... Then that is what these pale cheeks and dark eyes mean! And Edgar let you go!
Vir. No! I go! I am not a child, mother. Ah, I knew you would not understand!