George. [Drawing away.] For God's sake, don't touch me. I wanted to break it to you gently. I don't know what's happened. Everything has gone wrong. I'm going, Daisy, and nothing in the world can move me. I implore you to bear it bravely. [She looks at him with suffering, anxious eyes. She is stunned.] I'm afraid you're going to be awfully unhappy for a little while. But I beseech you to have courage. Soon the pain won't be so great, and then you'll see I've done the only possible thing.
Daisy. [Sullenly.] How long are you going for?
George. Three or four months. [A pause.] I knew you'd be brave, Daisy. Do you know, I was afraid you'd cry most awfully. It tears my heart to see you cry.
Daisy. Do you think I'm a child? Do you think I can cry now?
George. It's good-bye, then, Daisy.
[She does not answer. She hardly hears what he says. He hesitates an instant wretchedly, and then goes quickly out of the room. Daisy stands as if she were turned to stone. Her face is haggard. In a minute Lee Tai comes softly in. He stands at the door, looking at her, then gives a little cough. She turns round and sees him.
Daisy. [Fiercely.] What do you want?
Lee Tai. I was waiting till you were disengaged.
Daisy. Have you been listening?
Lee Tai. I have heard.