trust you, Bertha, and him too. I must. I cannot hate him since his arms have been around you. You have drawn us near together. There is something wiser than wisdom in your heart. Who am I that I should call myself master of your heart or of any woman's? Bertha, love him, be his, give yourself to him if you desire—or if you can.
Bertha
[Dreamily.] I will remain.
Richard
Goodbye.
[He lets her hand fall and goes out rapidly on the right. Bertha remains sitting. Then she rises and goes timidly towards the porch. She stops near it and, after a little hesitation, calls into the garden.]
Bertha
Is anyone out there?
[At the same time she retreats towards the middle of the room. Then she calls again in the same way.]
Bertha
Is anyone there?
[Robert appears in the open doorway that leads in from the garden. His coat is buttoned and the collar is turned up. He holds the doorposts with his hands lightly and waits for Bertha to see him.]
Bertha
[Catching sight of him, starts back: then, quickly.] Robert!
Robert
Are you alone?
