THE GOD OF VENGEANCE
Manke
Then we come closer to one another, for we are bride and bridegroom, you and I. We embrace. (Places her arm around Rifkele.) Ever so tightly. And kiss, very softly. Like this. (Kisses Rifkele.) And we turn so red, — we're so bashful. It's nice, Rifkele, isn't it?
Rifkele
Yes, Manke. . . Yes.
Manke, lowering her voice, and whispering into Rifkele' s ear.
And then we go to sleep together. Nobody sees, nobody hears. Only you and I. Like this. (Clasps Rifkele tightly to herself.) Do you want to sleep with me tonight like this? Eh?
Rifkele, looking about nervously.
I do. . . I do. . .
Manke, drawing Rifkele closer.
Come. . . Come. . .
Rifkele, softly.
I'm afraid of my father. He'll wake up and. .
Manke
Wait, Rifkele, wait a second. (Reflects for a moment.) Do you want to go away from here with me? We'll be together days and nights at a time. Your father won't be there, nor your mother. . . Nobody'll scold you. . . or beat you. . .
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