I shall tell you a story.
Once upon a time, there was a beautiful young girl who married for love. And she had two loving daughters. All was well, but, one day, her husband, the light of her life, died.
The next time, she married for the sake of her daughters. But that man, too, was taken from her. And she was doomed to look every day upon his beloved child.
She had hoped to marry off one of her beautiful, stupid daughters to the prince. But his head was turned by a girl with glass slippers.
And so I lived unhappily ever after.
My story would appear to be ended. Now, tell me yours. Did you steal it?
No. It was given to me.
Given to you? Given to you? Nothing is ever given. For everything, we must pay and pay.
That&`&s not true. Kindness is free. Love is free.
Love is not free.
Scene 2
Ella, My darling. I want to tell you a secret. A great secret that will see you through all the trials that life can offer. You must always remember this: Have courage and be kind. You have more kindness in your little finger than most people possess in their whole body. And it has power. More than you know. And magic.
Magic?
Truly. Have courage and be kind darling. Will you promise me?
I promise.
Good. Good.