So, that was the reason! And at the same time you went under your manzanillo-tree to die?
And did you never realize the real state of things? Gertrude was then still a child--and because I could not win you, I took her. Did that thought never occur to you?
The day before yesterday, when I read your book, I felt it for the first time.
Yes, now it is too late! Had I felt then as I do now, I would not have resisted you----
[_Breaking out_.] Oh I don't care, I don't care! It is my fate. You must rule and govern--and I--I must serve; and in the end--we both must die----
Marie, you should be loved, you must be loved--beyond all senses--loved beyond all measure!
Don't be angry, George dear; you don't dare love me yourself. You can never be anything to me!
No, never; for this house must be kept clean. No, no, this house must not be soiled. We would both suffocate in our shame. But we can think of what might have been; that is not sin, is it?
What were your words? "They are the wild birds of paradise, that have escaped us." That was it, was it not? How beautiful!
But I am not a wild bird, George; I am tame--so tame----
_Marie_, my love! [_Strokes her hair affectionally, then moves away_.] No, no, we must be strong! Only a few minutes ago, Gertrude came softly down those stairs; if she should come again--my God----!
As well as possible! But then I must not think of you.
But you must not think of me--and I will try and not think of you!
Yes, and when the fires are out, then I shall cry----
No, no, George, sit still--I will sit here. Some one might be in the garden, after all.
Even so! We must be brave; not for mine--but for your sake, George.
Why did you say that? What do you think of me?
Yes, I love you, for your own sake. For you have had to struggle and fight--and that is what made you what you are. I have also fought and struggled; but I have lost faith in myself--lost faith in everything. If you only knew!! Sometimes I am afraid of myself--sometimes I would commit murder, so restless and without peace I am.
With me you would have found peace. We would have worked together and planned through half the nights--and you know how ambitious I am.
And so am I, for you! You should be the first and greatest. They all shall bow before you--I myself will kneel before you and say to you: "You love to rule and command? Now rule--now command!!!!!!"
