The Stranger
Mordcha
It is really very gloomy in the house. We may now, but would you have the strength to do it?
Fraidele
Why not, if only we may.
Mordcha
Well, my child, I’ll go now with the wood. I’ll get back early today. We really must whitewash the house. It may be we’ll take someone in with us—so you won’t have to be alone.
Fraidele (startled)
Whom are you going to take into the house—someone to help me?
Mordcha
Yes, of course, so it’ll be a little easier for you. Mamma used to tremble over you so, and now—you have to work even beyond your strength
Fraidele
Don’t do it, papa. It’s good enough as it is. Let it be the way it is.
Mordcha
I can’t look on and see the way you have to work.
Fraidele
Mind me, papa, we don’t need anyone. I’m big enough now. I’ll raise Pinele, too, you’ll see.
Mordcha
Pinele, you see, needs a mamma, too.
Fraidele
I don’t want it—that a stepmother should come into the house.
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