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CLAY

Don't mention it, Colonel.

[SELLERS

Eh?

CLAY

Don't mention it.]

SELLERS
(Reflecting.)

Well, I won't.

[(Exit.)]

CLAY
(Approaches LAURA who is sitting by the table.)

Laura!

LAURA

Well, Clay?

CLAY

Are you vexed with me Laura?

LAURA

I was when you first wrote.

CLAY

And now?

LAURA

Now I know you wrote so [for] love of me.

CLAY

Oh, how dearly I have loved you all these long, long years, and always shall; but it is hopeless, and has been ever since that unhappy day that— But I will not speak of that now, for it can only distress us both. Now I have come to you only as a loving brother, whose sister's happiness holds the first place in his heart.

(Takes her hand.)

I will be ever so gentle, but we must talk of this matter.

(Her head inclines and she is agitated.)

Laura dear, look at me.

(Silence.)

Never before have your eyes shrunk from mine.

(Pause.)

Still silent?