Bertha
[Smiling.] No, only to hold.
Richard
Did you?
Bertha
Yes. [Tearing off a few petals.] Then he caressed my hand and asked would I let him kiss it. I let him.
Richard
Well?
Bertha
Then he asked could he embrace me—even once? . . . And then . . .
Richard
And then?
Bertha
He put his arm round me.
Richard
[Stares at the floor for a moment, then looks at her again.] And then?
Bertha
He said I had beautiful eyes. And asked could he kiss them. [With a gesture.] I said: Do so.
Richard
And he did?
Bertha
Yes. First one and then the other. [She breaks off suddenly.] Tell me, Dick, does all this disturb you? Because I told you I don't want that. I think you are only pretending you don't mind. I don't mind.
Richard
[Quietly!] I know, dear. But I want to find out what he means or feels just as you do.
