He is crying because in his old age he has to go forth into misery.—And as to you—why, you are not obliged to go.
MARY.
If you speak in that way, mother!—I am going.
SOPHY.
Then say good-night to him. It is time. Afterward I shall help you climb out of the window. At this moment Robert is already waiting. You can be back soon.
MARY.
Yes, mother, I will go. But not for Robert's sake, mother, nor for mine; only for father's sake. I will tell him: "Robert," I will say to him, "you will yet find a girl, more beautiful and better than myself, but my father will not find another child, if I leave him." I will tell him: "Robert," I will say to him, "I will forget you! God will give me strength that I may be able to forget you. Remain away from me, so that I may not see you again." God will help me, mother, will he not? He will, for I did love Robert so much.
SOPHY.
Now go. Say good-night and don't betray yourself.
[MARY stands by the FORESTER.]