Chapter III: Act II (1)

SCENE. _The second act takes place ten days later, towards the close of a rainy afternoon. A fire is burning in the grate and a basket of hickory wood stands beside the hearth._ PETER'S _hat is no longer on the peg. His pipes and jar of tobacco are missing. A number of wedding presents are set on a table, some unopened. The interior of the room, with its snapping fire, forms a pleasant contrast to the gloomy exterior. The day is fading into dusk._ MRS. BATHOLOMMEY _is at the piano, playing the wedding march from "Lohengrin." Four little girls are grouped about her, singing the words to the air._

_"Faithful and true:
We lead ye forth,
Where love triumphant
Shall lighten the way."_

_"Bright star of love,
Flower of the earth,
Shine on ye both
On Love's perfect day."_

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. That's better. Children, remember that this is to be a very _quiet_ wedding. You're to be here at noon to-morrow. You're not to speak as you enter the room and take your places near the piano. Miss Staats will come down from her room,--at least I suppose she will--and will stand ... [_Thinks._] I don't know where--but you're to stop when _I_ look at you. Watch me as though I were about to be married. [_She takes her place at the foot of the stairs and the children repeat the song until she has marched across the room and stationed herself in some appropriate corner. As_ FREDERIK _appears from the hall, where he leaves his raincoat and umbrella,_ MRS. BATHOLOMMEY _motions the children to silence._] That will do, dears, thank you. Hurry home between showers. [_The children go as she explains to_ FREDERIK.] My Sunday-school scholars.... I thought your dear uncle would like a song at the wedding. I know how bright and cheery he would have been--poor man. Dear, noble, charitable soul!

FREDERIK. [_In a low voice._] Where's Catherine?

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Taking up her fancy work, seating herself._] Upstairs.

FREDERIK. With that sick child? Tc!

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Catherine finds it a pleasure to sit beside the little fellow. William is very much better.

FREDERIK. [_Taking a telegram from his pocket-book._] Well, we shall soon be off to Europe. I've just had a telegram to say a cabin has been reserved for me on the _Imperator_. To-morrow, thank God, we shall take the afternoon train to New York.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. I must confess that I'm very glad. Of course, I'm happy to stay and chaperone Catherine; but poor Mr. Batholommey has been alone at the parsonage for ten days ... ever since your dear uncle ... [_Pauses, unwinding yarn, then unburdening her mind._] I didn't think at first that Catherine could persuade herself to marry you.

FREDERIK. [_Sharply._] I don't understand you, Mrs. Batholommey.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. I mean she seemed so averse to--to an immediate marriage; but of course it was your uncle's last request, and that influenced her more than anything else. So it's to be a June wedding, after all; he has his wish. You'll be married in ten days from the time he left us. [_Remembering._] Some more letters marked personal came for him while you were out. I put them in the drawer--[_Points to desk._] with the rest. It seems odd to think the postman brings your uncle's letters regularly, yet _he_ is not here.

FREDERIK. [_Looking towards the door of the office._] Did Hartman come?

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Yes. He seemed rather surprised that you'd sent for him.

FREDERIK. Did you--er--tell him that we intend to leave to-morrow?

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. I spoke of your wedding trip,--yes.

FREDERIK. Did he seem inclined to stay?

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. He didn't say. He seemed very much agitated. [MARTA _enters, carrying a night lamp._] We'll pack Miss Catherine's things to-night, Marta. [_She notices the lamp._] The night lamp for William? [_Looks up towards the door of his room._] Go in very quietly. He's asleep, I think. [MARTA _goes up the stairs and into_ WILLIAM'S _room._] By the way, Mr. Batholommey was very much excited when he heard that your uncle had left a personal memorandum concerning us. We're anxious to hear it read. [FREDERIK, _paying no attention to her words, is glancing at the wedding presents._] We're anxious to hear it read.

JAMES. [_Entering._] Did you wish to see me?

FREDERIK. [_Offering his hand to_ JAMES.] How do you do, Hartman? I'm very glad you consented to come back. My uncle never went into his office again after you left. There is some private correspondence concerning matters of which I know nothing; it lies on your old desk.... I'm anxious to settle everything to-night.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY _leaves the room._

JAMES. Very well. I have no doubt but that I can get through with it by midnight.

FREDERIK. If you care to remain longer with the firm, I--er--

JAMES. No, thank you.

FREDERIK. I appreciate the fact that you came on my uncle's account. I have no ill-feeling against you, Hartman.

JAMES. I'm not refusing to stay because of any ill-feeling. I'm going because I know that you'll sell out before your uncle's cold in his grave. I don't care to stay to see the old place change hands.

FREDERIK. I? Sell out? My intention is to carry out every wish of my dear old uncle's.

JAMES. I hope so. I haven't forgotten that you wanted him to sell out to Hicks of Rochester on the very day he died. [_Exit into the office._

CATHERINE _comes from_ WILLIAM'S _room, simply dressed in white--no touch of mourning._ FREDERIK _goes to the foot of the stairs and calls softly._

FREDERIK. Kitty! Here is our marriage license. I have the cabin on the _Imperator_. Everything is arranged.

CATHERINE. [_Coming downstairs._] Yes. ... I meant to speak to you--again.

FREDERIK. To-morrow's the day, dear.

CATHERINE. [_Very subdued._] Yes....

FREDERIK. A June wedding--just as Uncle Peter wished.

CATHERINE. [_As before_.] Yes.... Just as he wished. Everything is just as he.... [_With a change of manner--earnestly--looking at_ FREDERIK.] Frederik, I don't want to go away. I don't want to go to Europe. If only I could stay quietly here in--[_Tears in her voice as she looks round the room._]--in my dear home.

FREDERIK. Why do you want to stay in this old cottage--with its candles and lamps and shadows? It's very gloomy, very depressing.

CATHERINE. I don't want to leave this house.... I don't want any home but this. [_Panic-stricken._] Don't take me away Frederik. I know you've never really liked it at Grimm's Manor. Are you sure you'll want to come back to live here?

FREDERIK. [_As though speaking to a child._] Of course. I'll do anything you ask.

CATHERINE. I--I've always wanted to please ... [_After a slight pause, finding it difficult to speak his name._] Uncle Peter.... I felt that I owed everything to him.... If he had lived ... if I could see _his_ happiness at our marriage--it would make _me_ happy; [_Pathetically._] but he's gone ... and ... I'm afraid we're making a mistake. I don't feel towards you as I ought, Frederik. I've told you again and again; but I want to tell you once more: I'm willing to marry you ... but I don't love you--I never shall.

FREDERIK. How do you know?

CATHERINE. I know ... I know.... It seems so disloyal to speak like this after I promised _him_; but--

FREDERIK. Yes, you _did_ promise Uncle Peter you'd marry me, didn't you?

CATHERINE. Yes.

FREDERIK. And he died believing you?

CATHERINE. Yes.

FREDERIK. Then it all comes to this: are you going to live up to your promise?

CATHERINE. That's it. That's what makes me try to live up to it. [_Wiping her eyes._] But you know how I feel.... You understand....

FREDERIK. Perfectly; you don't quite know your own mind.... Very few young girls do, I suppose. I love you and in time you'll grow to care for me. [MARTA _re-enters from_ WILLIAM'S _room and closing the door comes down the stairs and passes off._] What _are_ we to do with that child?

CATHERINE. He's to stay here, of course.

FREDERIK. The child should be sent to some institution. What claim has he on you--on any of us?

CATHERINE. Why do you dislike him?

FREDERIK. I don't, but--

CATHERINE. Yes, you do. I can't understand it. I remember how angry you were when you came back from college and found him living here. You never mention his mother's name, yet you played together as children. When Uncle tried to find Annamarie and bring her back, you were the only one opposed to it.

FREDERIK. William is an uncomfortable child to have in the house. He has a way of staring at people as though he had a perpetual question on his lips. It's most annoying.

CATHERINE. What question?

FREDERIK. As for his mother--I've never seen her since she left this house and I don't care to hear her name on your lips. Her reputation is--[_The rain starts pattering on the shingled roof._] Tc! More rain ... the third day of it.... [_Going to the window--calling._] Otto! [_Angrily._] Otto! See what the wind has done--those trellises. [_Bangs the window shut._] That old gardener should have been laid off years ago.... By the way, his son James is here for a few hours--to straighten matters out. I must see how he's getting on. [_Taking her hand, drawing her towards the table with a change of manner._] Have you seen all the wedding presents, Kitty? I'll be back in a few minutes. [_Pats her cheek and exits._

CATHERINE _stands over her wedding presents just as he left her--not looking at them--her eyes filled with tears. The door is suddenly opened and the_ DOCTOR _enters, a tweed shawl over his shoulders, wearing a tweed cap. He has a book under his arm._

DR. MACPHERSON. How's William? [CATHERINE _tries to hide her tears, but he sees through her. He tosses his cap, coat and book on the sofa._] What's the matter?

CATHERINE. Nothing.... I was only thinking.... I was hoping that those we love ... and lose ... _can't_ see us here. I'm beginning to believe there's not much happiness in _this_ world.

DR. MACPHERSON. Why, you little snip. I've a notion to spank you. Talking like that with life before you! Read this book, child; [_Gesturing towards the book on the sofa._] it proves that the dead do see us; they do come back. [_Walks to the foot of the stairs--turns._] Catherine, I understand that you've not a penny to your name--unless you marry Frederik; that he has inherited you along with the orchids and tulips. Don't let that influence you. If Peter's plans bind you--and you look as though they did--my door's open. Think it over. It's not too late. [_Goes half-way up the stairs--then pauses._] Don't let the neighbours' opinions and a few silver spoons--[_Pointing to the wedding presents_ stand in the way of your future. [_Exit into_ WILLIAM'S _room. The rain increases. The sky grows blacker--the room darker._ CATHERINE _gives a cry and stretches out her arms, not looking up._

CATHERINE. Uncle Peter! Uncle Peter! Why did you do it? Why did you ask it? Oh, dear! Oh, dear! If you could see me now. [_She stands rigid--her arms outstretched._ MARTA, _who has silently entered from the dining-room with fresh candles, goes to_ CATHERINE. CATHERINE _suddenly buries her face on_ MARTA'S _broad breast, breaking into sobs; then recovering, wipes her eyes._] There, there ... I mustn't cry ... others have troubles, too, haven't they?

MARTA. Others have troubles, too.

CATHERINE. I had hoped, Marta, that Annamarie would have heard of Uncle's loss and come back to us at this time....

MARTA. If it had only brought us all together once more; but no message ... nothing ... I cannot understand.

CATHERINE. She knows that our door is open....

_The rain beats against the windows. A sharp double knock is heard at the door._ CATHERINE _starts as though suddenly brought to herself, hastily goes into the next room, taking the_ DOCTOR'S _book with her._ MARTA _has hurried towards the front door, when the_ REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _and_ COLONEL LAWTON _appear in the hall as though they had entered quickly, to escape the storm._ MARTA, _greeting them, passes of to tell_ FREDERIK _of their presence. The_ REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _wears a long, black cloth, rain-proof coat._ COLONEL LAWTON _wears a rubber poncho._ COLONEL LAWTON _is a tall man with a thin brown beard and moustache, about forty-eight. He is dressed in a Prince Albert coat, unpressed trousers, and a negligée shirt. He wears spectacles and has a way of throwing back his head and peering at people before answering them. The_ REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _sets his umbrella in the hall and the_ COLONEL _hangs his broad-brimmed hat on the handle--as though to let it drip._

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. Brr! I believe it's raining icicles.

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Taking off his overshoes._] Gee Whillikins! What a day! Good thing the old windmill out yonder is tied up. Great weather for baptisms, Parson. [_There is a faint, far-away rumble of thunder._ FREDERIK _enters._] Well, here we are, Frederik, my boy--at the time you mentioned.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. How are you, Frederik?

COLONEL LAWTON _crosses to the fire, followed by the_ REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY.

FREDERIK. [_Who has gone to the desk for a paper lying under a paper-weight._] I sent for you to hear a memorandum left by my uncle. I only came across it yesterday. [_There is a louder peal of thunder. A flash of lightning illuminates the room._

COLONEL LAWTON. I must have drawn up ten wills for the old gentleman, but he always tore 'em up. May I have a drink of his plum brandy, Frederik?

FREDERIK. Help yourself. Pastor?

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. Er--er--

COLONEL LAWTON _goes to the sideboard and pours out two drinks from a decanter. A heavy roll of thunder now ends in a sharp thunderclap._ MRS. BATHOLOMMEY, _who is entering the room, gives a cry and puts her hands over her face._ COLONEL LAWTON _bolts his whiskey. The_ REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _takes a glass and stands with it in his hand._

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Removing her hands in time to see the brandy._] Why, Henry! What are you doing? Are your feet wet?

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. No, Rose; they're not. I want a drink and I'm going to take it. It's a bad night. [_Drinks._

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Throws a hickory log on the fire, which presently blazes up, making the room much lighter._] Go ahead, Frederik. [_Sits._

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _has drawn up a chair for his wife, and now seats himself before the snapping hickory fire._

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. I knew that your uncle would remember his friends and his charities. He was so liberal! One might say of him that he was the very soul of generosity. He gave in such a free-handed, princely fashion.

FREDERIK. [_Reading in a businesslike manner._] For Mrs. Batholommey--

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. The dear man--to think that he remembered me! I knew he'd remember the church and Mr. Batholommey, of course; but to think that he'd remember me! He knew that my income was very limited. He was so thoughtful! His purse was always open.

FREDERIK. [_Eyes_ MRS. BATHOLOMMEY _for a second, then continues._] For Mr. Batholommey--[REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _nods solemnly._] and the Colonel.

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Taking out a cigar._] He knew that I did the best I could for him ... [_His voice breaks._] the grand old man. [_Recovering._] What'd he leave me? Mrs. B.--er? [_Nods inquiringly at_ MRS. BATHOLOMMEY, _who bows assent, and he lights his cigar._

FREDERIK. [_Glancing at the paper._] Mrs. Batholommey, he wished you to have his miniature--with his affectionate regards.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Dear old gentleman--and er--yes?

FREDERIK. To Mr. Batholommey--

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. But--er--you didn't finish with me.

FREDERIK. You're finished.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. I'm finished?

FREDERIK. You may read it yourself if you like.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. No, no, no. She'll take your word for it. [_Firmly._] Rose!

FREDERIK. [_Reads._] "To Mr. Batholommey, my antique watch fob--with my profound respects." [_Continues._] To Colonel Lawton--

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. His watch fob? Is _that_ what he left to _Henry_? Is that all? [_As_ FREDERIK _nods._] Well! If he had no wish to make _your_ life easier, Henry, he should at least have left something for the church. Oh! Won't the congregation have a crow to pick with you!

FREDERIK. [_Reading._] "To my life-long friend, Colonel Lawton, I leave my most cherished possession." [COLONEL LAWTON _has a look on his face as though he were saying, "Ah! I'll get something worth while."_

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Angrily._] When the church members hear that--

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Chewing his cigar._] I don't know why he was called upon to leave anything to the church--he gave it thousands; and only last month, he put in chimes. As _I_ look at it, he wished to give you something he had _used_--something personal. Perhaps the miniature and the fob _ain't_ worth three whoops in Hell,--it's the sentiment of the thing that counts--[_Chewing the word with his cigar._] the sentiment. Drive on, Fred.

FREDERIK. "To Colonel Lawton, my father's prayer-book."

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Suddenly changing--dazed._] His prayer-book ... me?

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Seeing_ FREDERIK _lay down the paper and rise._] Is that all?

FREDERIK. That's all.

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Still dazed._] A prayer-book.... Me? Well, I'll be-- [_Struck._] Here, Parson, let's swap. You take the prayer-book--I'll take the old fob.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Stiffly._] Thank you. I already _have_ a prayer-book. [_Goes to the window and looks out--his back turned to the others--trying to control his feelings._

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Her voice trembling with vexation and disappointment._] Well, all that I can say is--I'm disappointed in your uncle.

COLONEL LAWTON. Is it for this you hauled us out in the rain, Frederik?

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Bitterly._] I see now ... he only gave to the church to show off.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. Rose! ... I myself am disappointed, but--

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. He did! Or why didn't he _continue_ his work? He was _not_ a generous man. He was a hard, uncharitable, selfish old man.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Horrified._] Rose, my dear!

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. He was! If he were here, I'd say it to his face. The congregation sicked _you_ after him. Now that he's gone and you'll get nothing more, they'll call you slow--slow and pokey. You'll see! You'll see to-morrow.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. Sh!

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. As for the Colonel, who spent half his time with Mr. Grimm, what is his reward? A watch-fob! [_Prophetically._] Henry, mark my words--this will be the end of _you_. It's only a question of a few weeks. One of these new football playing ministers, just out of college, will take _your_ place. It's not what you _preach_ now that counts; it's what you coax out of the rich parishioners' pockets.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. [_In a low voice._] _Mrs._ Batholommey!

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Religion doesn't stand where it did, Henry--there's no denying that. There was a time when people had to go to church--they weren't decent if they didn't. Now you have to wheedle 'em in. The church needs funds in these days when a college professor is openly saying that-- [_Her voice breaks._] the Star of Bethlehem was a comet. [_Weeps._

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. Control yourself. I must insist upon it, Mrs. Batholommey.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Breaking down--almost breathlessly._] Oh! If I said all the things I feel like saying about Peter Grimm--well--I shouldn't be fit to be a clergyman's wife. Not to leave his dear friends a--

COLONEL LAWTON. He _wasn't_ liberal; but, for God's sake, madam, pull yourself together and think what he ought to have done for me!--I've listened to his plans for twenty years. I've virtually given up my business for him, and what have I got out of it? Not a button! Not a button! A bible. Still _I'm_ not complaining. Hang that chimney, Frederik, it's smoking. [COLONEL LAWTON _stirs the fire--a log falls out and the flame goes down. The room has gradually grown darker as the night approaches._

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Turning on_ COLONEL LAWTON.] Oh, you've feathered your nest, Colonel! You're a rich man.

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Enraged, raising his voice._] What? I never came here that _you_ weren't begging.

FREDERIK. [_Virtuously--laying down the paper._] Well, I'm disgusted! When I think how much more I should have if he hadn't continually doled out money to every one of you!

COLONEL LAWTON. What?

FREDERIK. He was putty in your hands.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Yes, you can afford to defend his memory--you've got the money.

FREDERIK. I don't defend his memory. He was a gullible old fossil, and the whole town knew it.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. _You_ did at any rate. I've heard you flatter him by the hour.

FREDERIK. Of course. He liked flattery and I gave him what he wanted. Why not? I gave him plenty. The rest of you were at the same thing; and I had the pleasure of watching him give you the money that belonged to me--to _me_--my money.... What business had he to be generous with my money? [_The_ COLONEL _strikes a match to light his cigar, and, as it flares up, the face of_ FREDERIK _is seen--distorted with anger._] I'll tell you this: had he lived much longer, there would have been nothing left for me. It's a fortunate thing for me that--[_He pauses, knowing that he has said too much. The room is now very dark. The rain has subsided. Everything is quiet outside. There is not a sound, save the ticking of the clock._

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Solemnly--breaking the pause._] Young man, it might have been better had Mr. Grimm given his _all_ to charity--for he has left his money to an ingrate.

FREDERIK. [_Laughing derisively._] Ha! Ha!

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Sh! Someone's coming.

_All is quiet. The clock ticks in the dark. The door opens._

FREDERIK. [_With a change of voice._] Come in. [_Nobody enters._] Where's a light? We've been sitting in the dark like owls. Come in. [_A pause. He strikes a match and holds it above his head. The light shows the open door. A wind, blowing through the doorway, causes the match to flicker, and_ FREDERIK _protects it with his hand._

COLONEL LAWTON. I'll see who's ... [_Looks out._] No one.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Someone _must_ be there. Who opened the door? [_The wind puts out the match in_ FREDERIK'S _hand. The room is once more in semi-darkness._] There ... it closed again ... [FREDERIK _strikes another match and holds it up. The door is seen to be closed._

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Who is nearest to the door._] I didn't touch it.

FREDERIK. [_Blowing out the match._] I'll have the lamps brought in.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Curious ...

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. It was the wind--a draught.

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Returning to his chair._] Must have been.

CATHERINE. [_Entering with a lamp._] Did someone call me?

_Without pausing, she sets the lamp on the table down right--opposite the group of characters. She turns up the wick and _PETER GRIMM _is seen standing in the room--half in shadow. He is as he was in life. The clothes he wears appear to be those he wore about his house in the first act. He carries his hat in his hand. He has the same kind smile, the same deferential manner, but his face is more spiritual and years younger. The lamp, which _CATHERINE_ has placed on the table, brightens the room._

PETER. [_Whose eyes never leave_ CATHERINE.] Yes ... I called you.... I've come back.

FREDERIK. [_To_ CATHERINE.] No.

PETER. Don't be frightened, Katie. It's the most natural thing in the world. You wanted me and I came.

FREDERIK. Why? What made you think someone called you?

CATHERINE. I'm so accustomed to hear Uncle Peter's voice in this room, that sometimes I forget he's not here ... I can't get over it! I was almost sure I heard him speak ... but, of course, as soon as I came in--I remembered.... But some one must have called me.

FREDERIK. No.

PETER _stands looking at them, perplexed; not being able to comprehend as yet that he is not seen._

CATHERINE. Isn't it curious ... to hear your name and turn and ... [_Unconsciously, she looks in_ PETER'S _face._] no one there?

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Kindly._] Nerves ... imagination.

FREDERIK. You need a complete change. [_Crossing to the door._] For heaven's sake, let's have more light or we shall all be hearing voices.

PETER. Strange.... Nobody seems to see me.... It's--it's extraordinary! Katie! ... Katie! ... [_His eyes have followed_ CATHERINE _who is now at the door._

CATHERINE. [_Pausing._] Perhaps it was the book I was reading that made me think I heard.... The Doctor lent it to me.

FREDERIK. [_Pooh-poohing._] Oh!

CATHERINE. [_Half to herself._] If he _does_ know, if he _can_ see, he'll be comforted by the thought that I'm going to do everything he wanted. [_She passes out of the room._

PETER. [_Showing that he does not want her to carry out his wishes._] No, no, don't ... Frederik, I want to speak to you.

[FREDERIK, _not glancing in_ PETER'S _direction, lights a cigarette._

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Well, Frederik, I hope the old gentleman can see his mistake _now_.

PETER. I can see several mistakes. [REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _rises and goes towards the door, pausing in front of_ PETER _to take out his watch._] ... Mr. Batholommey, I'm glad to see you in my house.... I'm very sorry that you can't see me. I wasn't pleased with my funeral sermon; it was very gloomy--very. I never was so depressed in my life.

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_To_ FREDERIK.] Do you know what I should like to say to your uncle?

PETER. I know.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. I hope at least you'll care for the parish poor as your uncle did--and keep on with _some_ of his charities.

PETER. [_Putting his hand on_ REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY'S _shoulder._] That's all attended to. I arranged all that with Frederik. He must look after my charities.

FREDERIK. I might as well tell you now--you needn't look to me. It's Uncle Peter's fault if your charities are cut off.

REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. [_Half-doubtingly._] It doesn't seem possible that he made no arrangements to continue his good works. [FREDERIK _remains stolid._ REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _puts back his watch after glancing at it._] Just thirty minutes to make a call. [_Goes into the hall to put on his overshoes, coat, &c., leaving_ PETER'S _hand extended in the air._

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Rising._] I must be toddling. [_Pauses._] It's queer, Frederik, how things turn out in this world. [_He stands, thinking matters over--cigar in mouth, his hand on his chin._

PETER. [_Slipping his hand through_ COLONEL LAWTON'S _arm. They seem to look each other in the eye._] You were perfectly right about it, Thomas, I should have made a will ... I--suppose it _is_ a little too late, isn't it?... It would be--er--unusual to do it now, wouldn't it?

COLONEL LAWTON, _who has heard nothing--seen nothing--moves away as though_ PETER _had never held his arm, and goes up into the hall for his cape and overshoes._

COLONEL LAWTON. [_Noticing an old gold-headed walking-stick in the hall._] Oh, er--what are you going to do with all the old man's family relics, Frederik?

FREDERIK. The junk, you mean? I shall lay it on some scrap-heap, I suppose. It's not worth a penny.

COLONEL LAWTON. I'm not so sure of that. They say there's a lot of money paid for this sort of trash.

FREDERIK. Is that so? Not a bad idea to have a dealer in to look it over.

PETER _stands listening, a faint smile on his face._

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. If I could have the old clock--cheap, Frederik, I'd take it off your hands.

FREDERIK. I'll find out how much it's worth. I shall have everything appraised. [_Sets his watch by the clock._ MRS. BATHOLOMMEY _gives him a look and joins her husband at the door._

COLONEL LAWTON. Good-night. [_Exit, closing the door._

MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [_As_ REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY _goes out--calling after him._] Henry, Catherine wants you to come back for supper. [MRS. BATHOLOMMEY _leaves the room too disgusted for words._ FREDERIK _goes into the office._

PETER. [_Now alone._] We live and learn ... and oh! what I have learned since I came back.... [_He goes to his own particular peg in the vestibule and hangs up his hat. He glances at the wedding presents. Presently he sees the flowers which_ CATHERINE _has placed on the desk. With a smile, he touches the flowers._ MARTA _enters with another lamp, which she places on a table. As_ PETER'S _eyes rest on_ MARTA, _he nods and smiles in recognition, waiting for a response._] Well, Marta?... Don't you know your old master?... No?... No?... [_She winds the clock and leaves the room._] I seem to be a stranger in my own house ... yet the watch-dog knew me and wagged his tail as I came in. [_He stands trying to comprehend it all._] Well! Well!

FREDERIK. [_Looking at his watch, re-enters from the office and goes to the 'phone, which presently rings._ FREDERIK _instantly lifts the receiver as though not wishing to attract attention. In a low voice._] Yes ... I was waiting for you. How are you, Mr. Hicks? [_Listens._] I'm not anxious to sell--no. I prefer to carry out my dear old uncle's wishes. [PETER _eyes him--a faint smile on his lips._] If I got my price? Well ... of course in that case ... I might be tempted. To-morrow? No, I can't see you to-morrow. I'm going to be married to-morrow, and leave at once for New York. Thank you. [_Listens._] To-night? Very well, but I don't want it known. I'll sell, but it must be for more than the price my uncle refused. Make it ten thousand more and it's done. [_Listens._] You'll come to-night?... Yes, yes.... [_Listens at the 'phone._] The dear old man told you his plans never failed, eh? God rest his soul! [_Laughing indulgently._] Ha! Ha! Ha!

PETER. Ha! Ha! Ha!

FREDERIK. [_Echoing_ HICKS' _words._] What would he say if he knew? What could he say? Everything must change.

_A far-away rumble of thunder is heard--the lightning flickers at the window and a flash is seen on the telephone which tinkles and responds as though from the electric shock. Exclaiming "Ugh,"_ FREDERIK _drops the receiver--which hangs down._

PETER. [_The storm passes as he speaks into the receiver without touching the telephone._] Good-evening, my friend. We shall soon meet--face to face. You won't be able to carry this matter through.... [_Looking into space as though he could see the future._] You're not well and you're going out to supper to-night; ... you will eat something that will cause you to pass over.... I shall see you to-morrow.... A happy crossing!

FREDERIK. [_Picks up the receiver._] Hello?... You don't feel well, you say? [_Then echoing the purport of_ HICKS' _answer._] I see.... Your lawyer can attend to everything to-night without you. Very well. It's entirely a question of money, Mr. Hicks. Send your lawyer to the Grimm Manor Hotel. I'll arrange at once for a room. Good-bye. [_Hangs up the receiver._] That's off my mind. [_He lights a fresh cigarette--his face expressing the satisfaction he feels in the prospect of a perfectly idle future._ PETER _looks at him as though to say: "And that's the boy whom I loved and trusted!"_ FREDERIK _gets his hat, throws his coat over his arm, and hastens out._

PETER. [_Turns and faces the door leading into the next room, as though he could feel the presence of some one waiting there._] Yes ... I am still in the house. Come in ... come in ... [_He repeats the signal of the first act._] Ou--oo. [_The door opens slowly--and_ CATHERINE _enters as though at_ PETER'S _call. She looks about her, not understanding. He holds out his arms to her._ CATHERINE _walks slowly towards him. He takes her in his arms, but she does not respond. She does not know that she is being held._] There! There!... Don't worry.... It's all right.... We'll arrange things very differently. I've come back to change all my plans. [_She moves away a step--just out of his embrace. He tries to call her back._] Katie! ... Can't I make my presence known to _you_? Katie! Can't my love for you outlive _me_? Isn't it here in the home?... Don't cry. [_She moves about the room in thought. As_ PETER _watches her--she pauses near his desk._

CATHERINE. [_Suddenly._] Crying doesn't help matters.

PETER. She hears me. She doesn't know it, but she hears me. She's cheering up. [_She inhales the flowers--a half smile on her lips._] That's right, you haven't smiled before since I died. [_Suddenly giving way to the realization of her loss_, CATHERINE _sighs._

PETER. [_Correcting himself._] I--I mean--since I learned that there was a happier place than the world I left.... I'm a trifle confused. I've not had time to adjust myself to these new conditions. [CATHERINE _smiles sadly--goes up to the window, and, leaning against the pane, looks out into the night._ PETER _continues comfortingly._] The dead have never really died, you know. We couldn't die if we tried. We're all about you.... Look at the gardens: they've died, haven't they? But there they are all the better for it. Death is the greatest thing in the world. It's really a--Ha!--delightful experience. What is it, after all? A nap from which we waken rested, refreshened ... a sleep from which we spring up like children tumbling out of bed--ready to frolic through another world. I was an old man a few days ago; now I'm a boy. I feel much younger than you--much younger. [_A conflict is going on in_ CATHERINE'S _mind. She walks to the chair by the fireplace and sits--her back to the audience. He approaches her and lays a tender hand on her shoulder._] I know what you're thinking.... Katie, I want you to break that very foolish promise I asked you to make. You're almost tempted to. Break it! Break it at once; then--[_Glancing smilingly towards the door through which he came--as though he wished to leave--like a child longing to go back to play._] then I could--take the journey back in peace.... I can't go until you do--and I ... I long to go.... Isn't my message any clearer to you? [_Reading her mind._] You have a feeling ... an impression of what I'm saying; but the words ... the words are not clear.... Mm ... let me see.... If you can't understand me--there's the Doctor, he'll know how to get the message-- he'll find the way.... Then I can hurry back ... home....

CATHERINE. [_Helplessly--changing her position like a tired child._] Oh, I'm so alone.

PETER. [_Cheerily._] Not alone at all--not at all. I shall drop in very often ... and then, there's your mother. [_Suddenly remembering._] Oh, yes, I had almost forgotten. I have a message for you, Katie.... [_He seats himself in a chair which is almost in front of her._] I've met your mother. [_She sits in a reverie._ PETER _continues with the air of a returned traveller relating his experiences._] She heard that I had crossed over and there she was--waiting for me. You're thinking of it, aren't you? Wondering if we met.... Yes, that was the first interesting experience. She knew me at once. "You were Peter Grimm," she said, "before you knew better"--that's what _they_ call leaving _this_ world--"_to know better_." You call it "dying." [_Confidentially._] She's been here often, it seems, watching over you. I told her how much I loved you and said that you had a happy home. I spoke of your future--of my plans for you and Frederik. "Peter Grimm," she said, "you've over-looked the most important thing in the world--love. You haven't given her _her right_ to the choice of her lover--_her right_!" Then it came over me that I'd made a terrible mistake ... and at that minute, you called to me. [_Impressively._] In the darkness surrounding all I had left behind, there came a light ... a glimmer where you stood ... a clear call in the night.... It seemed as though I had not been away one second ... but in that second, you had suffered.... Now I am back to show you the way.... I am here to put my hand on your dear head and give you your mother's blessing; to say she will be with you in spirit until she holds you in her arms--you and your loved husband--[CATHERINE _turns in her chair and looks towards the door of the room in which_ JAMES _is working._ PETER _catches the thought._]-- yes, James, it's you.... And the message ended in this kiss. [_Prints a kiss on her cheek._] Can't you think I'm with you, dear child? Can't you _think_ I'm trying to help you? Can't you even hope? Oh, come, at least hope! Anybody can hope.

CATHERINE _rises with an entire change of manner--takes a bright red blossom from the vase on_ PETER'S _desk--then deliberately walks to the door of the room in which_ JAMES _is working._ PETER _follows her action hopefully. She does not tap on the door, however, but turns and sits at the piano--in thought--not facing the piano. She puts_ PETER'S _flowers against her face. Then, laying the flowers on the piano, sings softly three or four bars of the song she sang in the first act--and stops abruptly._

CATHERINE. [_To herself._] That I should sit here singing--at a time like this!

PETER. Sing! Sing! Why not? Lift up your voice like a bird! Your old uncle doesn't sleep out there in the dust. That's only the dream. He's here-- here--alive. All his age gone and youth glowing in his heart. If I could only tell you what lies before you--before us all! If people even _suspected_ what the next life really is, they wouldn't waste time here--I can tell you _that_. They'd do dreadful things to get away from this existence--make for the nearest pond or--[_Pausing abruptly._] Ah, here comes someone who'll know all about it! [_The_ DOCTOR _comes from_ WILLIAM'S _room._ PETER _greets him in a cordial but casual way, as though he had parted from him only an hour before._] Well, Andrew, I apologize. [_Bowing obsequiously._] You were right. I apologize.

CATHERINE. How is he, Doctor?

DR. MACPHERSON. William is better. Dropped off to sleep again. Can't quite understand him.

PETER. I apologize. I said that if I could come back, I would; and here I am--apologizing. Andrew! Andrew! [_Trying to attract_ DR. MACPHERSON'S _attention._] I have a message, but I can't get it across. This is your chance. I want _you_ to take it. I don't wish Catherine to marry Frederik.

DR. MACPHERSON. He's somewhat feverish yet.

PETER. Can't _you_ understand one word?

DR. MACPHERSON. It's a puzzling case....

PETER. What? Mine?

DR. MACPHERSON. [_Getting a pad from his pocket--writing out a prescription with his fountain pen._] I'll leave this prescription at the druggist's--

PETER. I'm quite shut out.... They've closed the door and turned the key on me.

DR. MACPHERSON. [_Suddenly noticing that_ CATHERINE _seems more cheerful._] What's happened? I left you in tears and here you are--all smiles.

CATHERINE. Yes, I--I am happier--for some reason.... For the last few minutes I--I've had such a strange feeling.

DR. MACPHERSON. That's odd: so have I! Been as restless as a hungry mouse. Something seemed to draw me down here--can't explain it.

PETER. I'm beginning to be felt in this house.

DR. MACPHERSON. Catherine, I have the firm conviction that, in a very short time, I shall hear from Peter. [_Sitting at the table._

PETER. I hope so. It's high time now.

DR. MACPHERSON. What I want is some positive proof; some absolute test; some--er--[_Thinks._

CATHERINE _has seated herself at the table.--Unconsciously they both occupy the same seats as in the first act._

PETER. The trouble is with other people, not with us. You want us to give all sorts of proofs; and here we are just back for a little while--very poorly put together on the chance that you'll see us at all.

DR. MACPHERSON. Poor old Peter--bless his heart! [_His elbow on the table as though he had been thinking over the matter._ CATHERINE _sits quietly listening._] If he kept that compact with me, and came back,--do you know what I'd ask him first? If our work goes on.

PETER. Well, now, that's a regular sticker. It's bothered me considerably since I crossed over.

CATHERINE. What do you mean, Doctor?

DR. MACPHERSON. The question _every man wants the answer to_: what's to become of me--_me_--_my work_? Am I going to be a bone setter in the next life and he a tulip man?... I wonder.

PETER. Andrew, I've asked everybody--Tom, Dick and Harry. One spirit told me that sometimes our work _does_ go on; but he was an awful liar--you knew we don't drop our earth habits at once. He said that a genius is simply a fellow who's been there before in some other world and knows his business. Now then: [_Confidentially preparing to open an argument-- sitting in his old seat at the table, as in the first act._] it stands to reason, Andrew, doesn't it? What chance has the beginner compared with a fellow who knew his business before he was born?

DR. MACPHERSON. [_Unconsciously grasping the thought._] I believe it is possible to have more than one chance at our work.

PETER. There ... you caught that.... Why can't you take my message to Catherine?

DR. MACPHERSON. [_Rising to get his shawl--gruffly._] Thought over what I told you concerning this marriage? Not too late to back out.

PETER. He's beginning to take the message.

CATHERINE. Everything's arranged: I shall be married as Uncle Peter wished. I sha'n't change my mind.

DR. MACPHERSON. H'm! [_Picks up his shawl._

PETER. [_Trying to detain the_ DOCTOR--_tugging at his shawl without seeming to pull it._] Don't give up! Don't give up! A girl can always change her mind--while there's life. Don't give up! [_The_ DOCTOR _turns, facing_ PETER, _looking directly at him as he puts his hand in his coat pocket._] You heard that, eh?... Didn't you? Yes? Did it cross over?... What?... It did?... You're looking me in the face, Andrew; can you see me? [_The_ DOCTOR _takes a pencil out of his pocket, writes a prescription, throws his shawl over his shoulder--turning his back towards_ PETER _and facing_ CATHERINE.] Tc! Tc! Tc!

DR. MACPHERSON. Good-night.

CATHERINE. Good-night. [CATHERINE _goes quietly to the fireplace, kneeling down, mends the fire, and remains there sitting on an ottoman._

PETER. [_Calling after the_ DOCTOR.] If I could only make some sign--to start you thinking; but I can't depend upon _you_, I see that.... [_Then changing--as though he had an idea._] Ah, yes! There _is_ another way. Now to work. [_With renewed activity, he taps in the direction of the office door, although he himself stands three feet away from it. The door opens promptly and_ JAMES _appears on the threshold--pen in hand--as though something had made him rise suddenly from his desk._ CATHERINE, _still seated, does not see_ JAMES, _who stands looking at her--remembering that she is to be married on the following day._ PETER _tempts_ JAMES.] Yes, she _is_ pretty, James ... young and lovely.... Look!... There are kisses tangled in her hair where it curls ... hundreds of them.... Are you going to let her go? Her lips are red with the red of youth. Every smile is an invocation to life. Who could resist her smiles? Can you, James? No, you will not let her go. And her hands, James.... Look! Hands made to clasp and cling to yours. Imagine her little feet trudging happily about _your_ home.... Look at her shoulders ... shaped for a resting-place for a little head.... You were right, James, we should ask nothing of our girls but to marry the men they love and be happy wives and happy mothers of happy children. You feel what I am saying.... You couldn't live without her, could you? No? Very well, then--[_Changing abruptly._] Now, it's your turn.

JAMES _pauses a moment. There is silence. Then he comes forward a step and_ CATHERINE, _hearing him, turns and rises._

JAMES. [_Coldly--respectfully._] Miss Grimm ...

CATHERINE. James ...

JAMES. I felt that you were here and wished to speak to me. I--I don't know why ...

PETER. Good for James.

CATHERINE. [_Shaking hands with him._] I'm very glad to see you again, James. [_When_ PETER _sees that he has brought the two young people together, he stands in the background. The lovers are in the shadow, but_ PETER'S _figure is marked and clear._] Why did you go away?

JAMES. Oh--er--

CATHERINE. And without saying a word.

JAMES. Your uncle sent me away. I told him the truth again.

CATHERINE. Oh ...

JAMES. I am going in a few hours.

CATHERINE. Where are you going? What do you intend to do?

JAMES. [_Half-heartedly._] Father and I are going to try our luck together. We're going to start with a small fruit farm. It will give me a chance to experiment....

CATHERINE. It will seem very strange when I come back home.... Uncle gone ... and you, James. [_Her voice trembling._

JAMES. I hope you'll be happy, Catherine.

CATHERINE. James, Uncle died smiling at me--thinking of me ... and just before he went, he gave me his mother's wedding ring and asked me to marry Frederik. I shall never forget how happy he was when I promised. That was all he wanted. His last smile was for me ... and there he sat--still smiling after he was gone ... the smile of a man leaving the world perfectly satisfied--at peace. It's like a hand on my heart--hurting it-- when I question anything he wanted. I couldn't meet him in the hereafter if I didn't do everything he wished; I couldn't say my prayers at night; I couldn't speak his name in them.... He trusted me; depended upon me; did everything for me; so I must do this for him.... I wanted you to know this, James, because ...

JAMES. Why haven't you told Frederik the truth?

CATHERINE. I have.

JAMES. That you don't love him? [CATHERINE _doesn't answer, but_ JAMES _knows._] ... And he's willing to take you like that?--a little girl like you--in _that_ way.... God! He's rotten all the way through. He's even worse than I thought. Katie, I didn't mean to say a word of this to-day-- not a word; but a moment since--something made me change my mind--I don't know what!... [PETER _smiles._] I felt that I _must_ talk to you. You looked so young, so helpless, such a child. You've never had to think for yourself--you don't know what you're doing. You _couldn't_ live under it, Catherine. You're making the greatest mistake possible, if you marry where you don't love. Why should you carry out your uncle's plans? You're going to be wretched for life to please a dead man who doesn't know it; or, if he does know it, regrets it bitterly.

PETER. I agree with you now, James.

CATHERINE. You musn't say that, James.

JAMES. But I will say it--I will speak my mind. I don't care how fond you were of your uncle or how much he did for you--it wasn't right to ask this of you. It wasn't fair. The whole thing is the mistake of a _very_ obstinate old man.

CATHERINE. James!

JAMES. I loved him, too; but he _was_ an obstinate old man. Sometimes I think it was the Dutch blood in his veins.

PETER. A very frank, outspoken fellow. I like to hear him talk--now.

JAMES. Do you know why I was sent away? Why I quarrelled with your uncle? I said that I loved you ... he asked me.... I didn't tell him because I had any hopes--I hadn't.... I haven't now.... [_Struck._] But in spite of what I'm saying ... I don't know what makes me think that I ... I could take you in my arms and you would let me ... but I do think it.

CATHERINE. [_Retreats, backing towards_ PETER.] No!... Don't touch me, James--you mustn't! Don't!... Don't!

PETER _pushes her into_ JAMES' _arms, without touching her. She exclaims_ "Oh, James!" _and fairly runs towards_ JAMES _as though violently propelled. In reality, she thinks that she is yielding to an impulse. As she reaches him, she exclaims_ "No," _and turns back, but_ JAMES, _with outstretched arms, catches her._

JAMES. You love me. [_Draws her to him._

CATHERINE. Don't make me say that, James.

JAMES. I _will_ make you say it! You _do_ love me.

CATHERINE. No matter if I do, that won't alter matters.

JAMES. What? What?

CATHERINE. No, no, don't say any more.... I won't hear it. [_She stands free of_ JAMES--_then turns and walks to the stairs._] Good-bye, Jim.

JAMES. Do you mean it? Are you really going to sacrifice yourself because of--Am I really losing you?... Catherine! Catherine!

CATHERINE. [_In tears--beseechingly._] Please don't.... Please don't....

FREDERIK _enters. Until the entrance of_ FREDERIK, PETER _has had hope in his face, but now he begins to feel apprehensive._

FREDERIK. [_Throwing his hat and coat on a chair._] I have some work to do--more of my uncle's unopened mail; then I'll join you, Hartman. We must--er--make haste.

JAMES _looks at_ CATHERINE, _then at_ FREDERIK. CATHERINE _gives him an imploring glance--urging him not to speak._ FREDERIK _has gone to_ PETER'S _desk._

JAMES. I'll come back later. [_Goes towards the hall._

FREDERIK. Catherine, have you asked James to be present at the ceremony to-morrow?

CATHERINE. No.

FREDERIK. James, will you--

JAMES. I shall be leaving early in the morning.

FREDERIK. Too bad! [_Exit_ JAMES.

FREDERIK _lights the desk candles, takes the mail out of the drawer--opens two letters--tears them up after barely glancing at them--then sees_ CATHERINE _still standing at the foot of the stairs--her back to him. He lays the cigar on the desk, crosses, and, taking her in his arms, kisses her._

CATHERINE. [_With a revulsion of feeling._] No! No! No! [_She covers her face with her hands--trying to control herself._] Please!... Not now....

FREDERIK. Why not _now_? [_Suspiciously._] Has Hartman been talking to you? What has he been saying to you? [CATHERINE _starts slowly up the stairs._] Wait a moment, please.... [_As she retreats a step up the stairs, he follows her._] Do you really imagine you--you care for that fellow?

CATHERINE. Don't--please.

FREDERIK. I'm sorry to insist. Of course, I knew there was a sort of school-girl attachment on your part; ... that you'd known each other since childhood. I don't take it at all seriously. In three months, you'll forget him. I must insist, however, that you do _not_ speak to him again to-night. After to-morrow--after we are married--I'm quite sure that you will not forget you are my wife, Catherine--my wife.

CATHERINE. I sha'n't forget. [_She escapes into her room._ FREDERIK _goes to his desk._

PETER. [_Confronting_ FREDERIK.] Now, sir, I have something to say to you, Frederik Grimm, my beloved nephew! I had to die to find you out; but I know you! [FREDERIK _is reading a letter._] You sit there opening a dead man's mail--with the heart of a stone--thinking: "He's gone! he's gone!-- so I'll break every promise!" But there is something you have forgotten-- something that always finds us out: the law of reward and punishment. Even now it is overtaking you. Your hour has struck. [FREDERIK _takes up another letter and begins to read it; then, as though disturbed by a passing thought, he puts it down. As though perplexed by the condition of his own mind, he ponders, his eyes resting unconsciously on_ PETER.] Your hour has struck.

FREDERIK. [_To himself._] What in the world is the matter with me to-night?

PETER. Read!

FREDERIK. [_Has opened a long, narrow, blue envelope containing a letter on blue paper and a small photograph. He stares at the letter, aghast._] My God! Here's luck.... Here's luck! From that girl Annamarie to my uncle. Oh, if he had read it!

PETER. [_Standing in front of_ FREDERIK _looks into space--as though reading the letter in the air._] "Dear Mr. Grimm: I have not written because I can't do anything to help William, and I am ashamed."

FREDERIK. Wh! [_As though he had read the first part to himself, now reads aloud._] "Don't be too hard upon me.... I have gone hungry trying to save a few pennies for him, but I never could; and now I see that I cannot hope to have him back. William is far better off with you. I--" [_Hesitates._

PETER. [_Going back of the desk, standing behind_ FREDERIK'S _chair._] Go on....

FREDERIK. "I wish that I might see him once again. Perhaps I could come and go in the night."

PETER. That's a terrible thing for a mother to write.

FREDERIK. [_Who has been looking down at the letter--suddenly feeling_ PETER'S _presence._] Who's that? Who's in this room? [_Looks over his shoulder--then glances about._] I could have sworn somebody was looking over my shoulder ... or had come in at the door ... or ... [_But seeing no one--he continues._] "I met someone from home; ... if there is any truth in the rumour of Catherine's marriage--it mustn't be, Mr. Grimm--it mustn't be ... not to Frederik. For Frederik is my little boy's--" [FREDERIK _gives a furtive glance upstairs at the door of the child's room. Picks up the small picture which was in the envelope._] Her picture ... [_Turns it over--looks at the back--reads._] "For my boy, from Annamarie." [FREDERIK, _conscious-stricken for the time being, bows his head._