Peter, knew, of course that it
was Miriam who had set Rosie Stern after him and brought about his
downfall. Still, he could not help but be moved by her appearance.
She looked haggard and old, and she had a cough, and her eyes were
wild and crazy. Peter remembered her as proud and hot-tempered, but
now her pride was all gone--she flung herself on her knees before
him, and caught hold of his coat, sobbing hysterically. It appeared
that she had a mother and five young brothers and sisters who were
dependent upon her earnings; all her money had been consumed by
hospital expenses, and now she was to be deported to Russia, and
what would become of her loved ones?
Peter answered, what could he do? She had violated the law, they had
her membership card in the Communist Party, and she had admitted
that she was alien born. He tried to draw away, but she clung to
him, and went on sobbing and pleading. At least she ought to have a
chance to talk with her old mother, to tell her what to do, where to
go for help, how to communicate with Miriam in future. They were
sending her away without allowing her to have a word with her loved
ones, without even a chance to get her clothing!
Peter, as we know, had always been soft-hearted towards women, so
now he was embarrassed.
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