I implore you, do not insist. I fear the consequence. You will see! for whatever is done against nature, punishes itself.
And is it against nature when a child cries out for its own mother?
She is not your mother; your mother is in this house.
Gertrude's mother is in this house, not mine. A mother must feel for her child, she must see----
You two are continually talking in whispers; can't you tell _me_? It makes me so unhappy!
[_Caressing her_.] But darling, it is all done for your sake!
[_During this_, George _looks at her disapprovingly, while_ Marie _casts a timid glance at him_.]
[_Enters_.] At last you have come. Where in thunder have you been all day? It almost seemed to me as if you were trying to avoid me!
Well, girls, have you prepared the pastor's eggnog?
Then see to it at once. And don't forget the sugar, you know.
And Gertrude dear, you can go and help her. It is time you were learning to do something yourself.
I hardly think it will be ready in time to take with you and mama.
[_With a glance at_ George.] Could not Gertrude bring it, papa? I have so much work to do!
Yes, yes, you shall!--bring it up when done; and mind, you remain at the pastor's as long as your mother and I, this time. Understand?
Oh, papa dear! The last time, the old pastor insisted upon holding my hand in his so long; and they are so cold and clammy, so shriveled and hairy, like the hands of the dead!
Come here, my child. Those hairy hands once christened you, and at your confirmation the same shriveled hands were laid upon your head and invoked for you the blessings of heaven; and would you, after all that, refuse to hold them in your own warm young hands? My daughter, I do not wish to hear that again. [_Kisses her_.]
[_Slowly has approached_ George. _Softly, aside to him_.] You will do as I ask?
"Now, then, comes your turn," says the stork to the worm.
[_Looking after the girls, turns_.] I suppose so, but take a care, uncle, I am not so easily digested.
What do you want with me? My financial condition is satisfactory. I have a good position, and my future is assured. I desire to enjoy the results of my own labors, not those of yours.
Yes, dear uncle. If you were so determined upon giving a large dowry, you should have found another husband for Gertrude than myself.