Kroll (seriously, and in, a subdued voice). Because I did not
want to come here like a living reminder of the unhappy time that
is past--and of her who met her death in the mill-race.

Rosmer. It was a very kind thought on your part. You are always
so considerate. But it was altogether unnecessary to keep away
from us on that account. Come along, let us sit down on the sofa.
(They sit down.) I can assure you it is not in the least painful
for me to think about Beata. We talk about her every day. She
seems to us to have a part in the house still.

Kroll. Does she really?

Rebecca (lighting the lamp). Yes, it is really quite true.

Rosmer. She really does. We both think so affectionately of her.
And both Rebecca--both Miss West and I know in our hearts that we
did all that lay in our power for the poor afflicted creature. We
have nothing to reproach ourselves with. That is why I feel there
is something sweet and peaceful in the way we can think of Beata
now.

Kroll. You dear good people! In future I am coming out to see you
every day.

Rebecca (sitting down in an arm-chair). Yes, let us see that you
keep your word.

Rosmer (with a slight hesitation). I assure you, my dear fellow,
my dearest wish would be that our intimacy should never suffer in