(After a
pause.) Are you content?
Jovita. I am.
Oakhurst. Then there is not a moment to lose. Retire, and prepare
yourself for a journey. I will wait here.
Jovita. I am ready now.
Oakhurst (looking toward pillar). Pardon, my darling: there was a
bracelet--a mere trifle--I once gave you. It is not on your wrist.
I am a trifle superstitious, perhaps: it was my first gift. Bring
it with you. I will wait. Go!
[Exit JOVITA.
OAKHURST watches her exit, lounges indifferently toward gate; when
opposite pillar, suddenly seizes MORTON by the throat, and drags
him noiselessly to centre.
Oakhurst (hurriedly). One outcry,--a single word,--and it is your
last. I care not who YOU may be!--who I am,--you have heard enough
to know, at least, that you are in the grip of a desperate man.
(Keys fall from MORTON'S hand. OAKHURST seizes them.) Silence! on
your life.
Morton (struggling). You would not dare! I command you--
Oakhurst (dragging him to gateway). Out you must go.
Morton. Stop, I command you. I never turned MY father out of
doors!
Oakhurst (gazing at MORTON). It is an OLD man! I release you. Do
as you will, only remember that that girl is mine forever, that
there is no power on earth will keep me from her.
Morton. On conditions.
Oakhurst. Who are you that make conditions? You are not--her
father?
Morton. No but I am YOURS! Alexander Morton, I charge you to hear
me.
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