I’m going to take mother’s place in a few minutes. I awoke early, so I went for a walk.... You’ve been very good and kind to all of us during these wretched days, Sylvia. I don’t know what we should have done without you.
Sylvia.
I’ve been so dreadfully sorry. And you all had so much to bear. It wasn’t only the thought that the poor dear couldn’t—can’t recover, but ... it was so much worse than that.
John.
[With a quick glance at her.] I suppose it was inevitable that you should see it too. Somehow I hoped that only I and mother knew.
Sylvia.
Oh, John, you can’t mind about me. I’ve loved your father as though he were my own. Nothing he did could make me love him less.
John.
He’s afraid to die. It’s dreadful to see his terror and to be able to do nothing to help him.
Sylvia.