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LAURA

I would , George, if you should ever cease to love me.

COL. SELBY

Would you?

LAURA

As sure as— No— No— I couldn't now , but by and by— with the wrong rankling in my heart. I— No— I hope and pray I never could. Oh! I must not think such dreadful things.

COL. SELBY
(Embracing her.)

I would be a villain if I ceased to love you , Laura. I should deserve death.

LAURA

But you never will cease to love me, will you, George?

COL. SELBY

Never, Darling.

LAURA

I believe you. I trust you with all my heart.

COL. SELBY

Indeed you may, for I shall prove worthy of it Laura. I must go now, but I must see you again.

LAURA

I— I cannot say no, for I do not live when you are out of my sight. I will see you three days hence, but not here, you know where, same hour as before. Good bye.

COL. SELBY
(Extricating himself.)

Good bye.

(Embraces her. Exit SELBY)