Part 55 (2/2)

Delormis takes a smaller one) I was not in bed.

Mrs. Tru. (Looking toward bed in alcove, right) But you have been! You could not sleep either. Ah!

(Sighs deeply)

Hel. (Goes to couch) Now, mamma!

Mrs. Tru. (Embarra.s.sed by Helen's straightforward look) Helen--I--I've just got to have it out to-night. You are only my step-daughter, but I've loved you like my own.

Hel. (Quaintly) Yes.

Mrs. Tru.

Haven't I always treated you as if you were my daughter born?

Hel. (Slowly) You have indeed!

Mrs. Tru.

And I can't bear for you to--to--O, I just can't bear it, I say!

Hel. Bear what, mamma?

Mrs. Tru.

This--this man--

Mrs. Del.

Edgar Poe, Helen.

Mrs. Tru.

You are going to give up Roger--Roger who has wors.h.i.+pped you since you were a baby, who has lived under the same roof and been a brother to you since you were two years old--you are going to give him up for a strange man--a man without a penny--a man you have seen but once--(Almost shrieking)--but once--(Rising)

Hel. (Crosses, and stands before her, speaking calmly) We know angels at first sight, mamma.

Mrs. Tru. (Grabbing Helen by the shoulders and staring at her) You have done it already! (Falls to chair as if fainting)

Hel. Soothe her, Catherine. I will get some wine. (Exit)

Mrs. Tru. (Sitting up, at once recovered) She's made up her mind. When her eyes s.h.i.+ne like that it's no use to argue.

And all of Roger's fortune in Mr. Truelord's hands! We've considered it a family resource for years!

Mrs. Del.

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