Page:Etta Block - One-act plays from the Yiddish (1923).pdf/33

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Mother and Son



affected her greatly on the way. In her delirium she spoke such strange words. We couldn’t make anything of it. She cried constantly that she had to stand like a beggar, like a thief—and then she would plead with someone—to be forgiven…

Moshele
One can’t make anything out of that. High fever is apt to cause such a disorder of the mind that the words spoken at that time would have no particular significance. But it is difficult to understand where she could have gone that she need keep it such a secret. Is there no longer any danger?

Gitele
No. Today she is almost herself again. She has already left her bed.

Moshele
And how is my brother?

Gitele
Very well. You wouldn’t know him. He is so tall—a real man now.

Moshele
So? And does he still study as diligently?

Gitele
Yes, even more so. In the town he is known by no other name than “Aaron, the learned.”

Moshele
Does he ever speak of me? (Sadly.) One becomes so estranged—it is almost two years…

Gitele (embracing him)
I am so glad you listened to me and came back.

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