This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
HAMILTON
157

my ambitions. My home is in ruins, but the honor of my office has been saved.

[Breaking down. His head drops for a moment on his arms as he holds the handles of the doors. During that moment, Betsy enters r. 1 e. She has taken off her outdoor clothes. She comes forward to Hamilton with outstretched arms.

Betsy.
Alexander?

Hamilton.
[Turns to her, amazed; comes down and folds her tenderly in his arms.] Betsy!

Betsy.
I thought I could be proud and hard, but I can't, dear—I can't.

Hamilton.
[Kissing her fervently.] My dear one! [Kisses her again. Then to Schuyler, who has come down r. of them.] Father, will you take Betsy, till this [indicating toward c. doors] is over?

Betsy.
No, Alexander. Let me stand by you.

Hamilton.
[Kisses her hand and she moves down r. He becomes a different man and going up he throws open the great centre doors. The room beyond is brilliantly lighted and the entire scene is lighted up. There is a murmur of conversation. The room beyond is filled with men—about a dozen or more; some are seated. Present are Marshall, Morris,