Amy Dorrit: [Holding Clennam's discarded shirt button and hears John Chivery approach] John, is it you?
[Sees his appearance and turns and hides button]
John Chivery: I - I'm afraid... Did I disturb you? I took the liberty of walkin' this way because Mr. Dorrit chanced to mention you might be here.
Amy Dorrit: Did he?
[Turns away]
John Chivery: Have I done something to upset you?
Amy Dorrit: [Looks at him and shakes head no]
John Chivery: [Takes off top hat] We've always been good friends, you and I haven't we, Amy?
Amy Dorrit: Yes, we have. And I hope we will continue so, nothing change.
John Chivery: Ah, but things do change, Amy. Is the way of things, and the way things should be.
Amy Dorrit: [Turns to leave] I think I should go back now, John.
John Chivery: Amy, please. Let me say what I have to say. I should go mad if I don't.
[She stops and turns around]
John Chivery: I th - I think you know I've always loved you, ever since we were play fellows.
Amy Dorrit: And I've always been fond of you, John.
John Chivery: I'd do anything for you. I - I'd fling myself off that parapet if it would give you a moment's joy.
Amy Dorrit: Please don't do that, John.
John Chivery: Then put me out of my misery and say you'll be my wife.
Amy Dorrit: I'm sorry. I can't do that, John. I am fond of you, but I could never feel about you that way, the way you'd like me to.
John Chivery: Well... You might come to?
Amy Dorrit: No. Sorry, John. I know I never shall.
John Chivery: Th-then I must ask, is there someone else?
Amy Dorrit: No. That is, I don't expect I shall ever marry, and in truth I'm quite contented as I am looking after father.
[Grabs his hand]
Amy Dorrit: But I hope you'll have a good wife one day. Because you deserve one.
[John leans down and kisses her hand. Pause]
Amy Dorrit: Please don't cry.
John Chivery: I can't help it, Amy. I set my heart on you. G - good-bye.
[Walks away and tosses top hat in basket]