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II]

[Turning towards her.] If it were not only something brutal with this person or that—for a few moments. If it were something fine and spiritual—with one person only—with one woman. [Smiles.] And perhaps brutal too. It usually comes to that sooner or later. Would you try to forget and forgive that?

[Toying with her wristlet.] In whom?

In anyone. In me.

[Calmly.] You mean in Dick.

I said in myself. But would you?

You think I would revenge myself? Is Dick not to be free too?

[Points at her.] That is not from your heart, Bertha.

[Proudly.] Yes, it is; let him be free too. He leaves me free also.

[Insistently.] And you know why? And understand? And you like it? And you want to be? And it makes you happy? And has made you happy? Always? This gift of freedom which he gave you—nine years ago?

[Gazing at him with wide open eyes.] But why do you ask me such a lot of questions, Robert?