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[Act II

Robert

[With a polite gesture.] Well, I will try.

Bertha

Why do you stand like that near the door? It makes me nervous to look at you.

Robert

I am trying to understand. And then I am afraid.

Bertha

[Holds out her hand.] You need not be afraid.

[Robert comes towards her quickly and takes her hand.]

Robert

[Diffidently.] Used you to laugh over me—together? [Drawing his hand away.] But now I must be good or you may laugh over me again—tonight.

Bertha

[Distressed, lays her hand on his arm.] Please listen to me, Robert . . . But you are all wet, drenched! [She passes her hand over his coat.] O, you poor fellow! Out there in the rain all that time! I forgot that.

Robert

[Laughs.] Yes, you forgot the climate.

Bertha

But you are really drenched. You must change your coat.

Robert

[Takes her hands.] Tell me, it is pity then that you feel for me, as he—as Richard—says?

Bertha

Please change your coat, Robert, when I ask you. You might get a very bad cold from that. Do, please.