Fair. But--if--I love you, Steve?

Winth. (softly takes her in his arms, bending close over her).
Even though you love me (Fair shrinks away from him. He turns to
Hopkins: when he speaks his voice has a mechanical, hollow sound). Back
to the camp; Mr. Hillary will accompany us.

Hillary. I am ready sir.

[He goes to the door with Hopkins. Charlotte, with a wild cry of
"No, no!" rushes to him, throwing her arms around his neck.
He softly kisses her, then hands her over to Mrs. S., who
takes her in her arms. He then turns to Hopkins, making a
sign of assent, and together they leave the room, followed
by Winthrop.

Cupid (coming slowly forward, a haggard look on his face). Mistis
(almost pleading) Mistis! Kin you forgib dis old fool nigger? I thought
hit ud cheer you ter see um. Fo Gaud I never thought of Marster Carter
coming here. Fo Gaud I never!

Mrs. S. We do not blame you. How could we have known. How could we?

Char. (raising her face). There's father yet and Gordon. They may
come at any minute. We must save them. How, How; what can we do; what
can we do?

[She crosses to the window, her hands pressed to her head.