The Unknown; A Play in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

That was very natural.

Sylvia.

Now at last I have the chance to do something. No sacrifice is worthless in the eyes of God. A broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. I sacrifice now all that was precious to me in the world, my love and my hope of happiness in this life, and I sacrifice it with a cheerful heart, and I pray that God may accept it. So shall I do my part to atone for the sins which have brought on this horrible war.

John.

It would have been better if I’d never come back. I’ve caused misery and suffering to all of you.

Sylvia.

John, you took away the ring you gave me when we became engaged. You threw it in the fire.

John.

I’m afraid that was very silly of me. I did it in a moment of bitterness.

Sylvia.