The roof-tree beam that copes and clinches
The house I've builded up by inches.
Stick fast; hold out; endure; survive!
Guard your life! Never let it go!
An heir is bound to keep alive,—
And you'll be mine—one day—you know
Brand.
Indeed? And that was why you plann'd
With loaded purse to seek me here?
His Mother.
Son, are you raving?
[Steps back.]
Don't come near
Stay where you are! You'll feel my hand!
[More calmly.]
What were you meaning?—Just attend
I'm getting older year by year;
Sooner or later comes the end;
Then you'll inherit all I've treasured,
'Tis duly counted, weighed and measured—
Nay, nay, I've nothing on me now!—
It's all at home. It is but scant;
But he that gets it will not want.
Stand back there! Don't come near!—I vow
I'll fling no stiver of my store
Down fissures, nor in spot unknown
Hide any, nor below a stone.
In wall, or underneath a floor;
All shall be yours, son, you shall be
My sole and single legatee.
Brand.
And the conditions?
