Robert monologue (Act 3) — Beyond the Horizon

(_taking of her shoes and stockings_) We’ll show Mama we know how to do those things, won’t we? There’s one old shoe off--and there’s the other old shoe--and here’s one old stocking--and there’s the other old stocking. There we are, all nice and cool and comfy. (_He bends down and kisses her_) And now will you promise to go right to sleep if Dada takes you to bed? (MARY _nods sleepily_) That’s the good little girl. (_He gathers her up in his arms carefully and carries her into the bedroom. His voice can be heard faintly as he lulls the child to sleep._ RUTH _comes out of the kitchen and gets the plate from the table. She hears the voice from the room and tiptoes to the door to look in. Then she starts for the kitchen but stands for a moment thinking, a look of ill-concealed jealousy on her face. At a noise from inside she hurriedly disappears into the kitchen. A moment later_ ROBERT _re-enters. He comes forward and picks up the shoes and stockings which he shoves carelessly under the table. Then, seeing no one about, he goes to the sideboard and selects a book. Coming back to his chair, he sits down and immediately becomes absorbed in reading._ RUTH _returns from the kitchen bringing his plate heaped with food, and a cup of tea. She sets those before him and sits down in her former place._ ROBERT _continues to read, oblivious to the food on the table_).