Aunt!--That wretched Hans! I was signalling to him--I
wanted to surprise you. (Throws herself into LEONARDA'S arms.)
Leonarda. Child, have you deceived me?
Aagot. Deceived you? I?
Leonarda. I knew it! (Embraces her.) Forgive me! I had a
moment's horrible doubt--but as soon as I looked at you it was
gone!--Welcome, welcome! How pretty you look! Welcome!
Aagot. Oh, aunt!
Leonarda. What is it?
Aagot. You know.
Leonarda. His shameless persecution of you? Yes! (Meanwhile
HAGBART has slipped out.)
Aagot. Hush!--Oh, he has gone!--Have you been cross with him?
Leonarda. Not as cross as he deserved--
Aagot. Didn't I tell him so?
Leonarda (laughing). What did you tell him?
Aagot. How hasty you could be!--Were you really cruel to him?
Leonarda. Do you mean to say you have any sympathy--with him?
Aagot. Have I any--? But, good heavens, hasn't he told you?
Leonarda. What?
Aagot. That he--that I--that we--oh, aunt, don't look so dreadfully
at me!--You don't know, then?
Leonarda. No!
Aagot. Heaven help me! Aunt--!
Leonarda. You don't mean to say that you--?
Aagot. Yes, aunt.
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