—and I’d be cured. He was right. That was always the cure for me. It’s too late—for this world—but in the next I’ll not miss—the secret. [He has a fit of coughing which racks his body.]
Andrew—[With a hoarse sob.] Rob! [He clenches his fists in an impotent rage against fate.] God! God! [Ruth sobs brokenly and wipes Robert’s lips with her handkerchief.]
Robert—[In a voice which is suddenly ringing with the happiness of hope.] You mustn’t feel sorry for me. It’s ridiculous! Don’t you see I’m happy at last—because I’m making a start to the far-off places—free—free!—freed from the farm—free to wander on and on—eternally! Even the hills are powerless to shut me in now. [He raises himself on his elbow, his face radiant, and points to the horizon.] Look! Isn’t it beautiful beyond the hills? I can hear the old voices calling me to come [Exultantly.] And this time I’m going—I’m free! It isn’t the end. It’s a free beginning—the start of my voyage! Don’t you see? I’ve won to my trip—the right of release—beyond the horizon! Oh, you ought to be glad—glad—for my sake! [He collapses weakly.] Andy! [Andrew bends down to him.] Remember Ruth———
Andrew—I’ll take care of her, I swear to you, Rob!
Robert—Ruth has suffered—and for your own sake and hers—remember, Andy—only through sacrifice—the secret beyond there——— [He suddenly raises himself with his last remaining strength and
