Part 89 (1/2)

_The same_ Marion, The Jailer

THE JAILER (_to Marion)_

Be sure to come at the appointed hour

[_Goes up stage; during the rest of this scene he continues to walk up and down at the back_

MARION (_advances with tottering steps as if absorbed in soht Every now and then she draws her hand across her face as if to rub off so_)

His lips, like red-hot iron, have branded me!

[_Suddenly she discovers Didier, gives a cry, runs and throws herself breathless at his feet_

Didier--Didier!

DIDIER (_roused with a start_)

Here, Marion! My God!

[_Coldly_] 'Tis you?

MARION

Who should it be? Oh, leave me here-- Here at your feet! It is the place I love!

Your hands, your dear loved hands, give them--your hands!

Oh, they are wounded! Those harsh chains did that

The wretched creatures! But I'm here--you know-- Oh, it is terrible! [_She weeps; her sobs are audible_

DIDIER

Why do you weep?

MARION

Why? Didier, I'h!

[_She laughs_ We'll soon escape froh I'm happy

You will live; the danger's passed

[_She falls again at Didier's feet and sobs_

My God!

All this is killing me! I'm broken--crushed

DIDIER

Madame--

MARION (_rises, without hearing his it to him_)

Now hurry! We have not much time!