Page:Poet Lore, volume 27, 1916.djvu/65

 rich enough to pay for their lovers in cash. (Laughs harshly.) But our accounts are also settled aren’t they, Victor? (Rising.) And what was before or what will be later, we don’t have to know!

( shows disturbance.)

Helen (Lays her hand on shoulder).—Victor, I don’t believe a soul in our world—and those of them who are not fools, don’t believe us either. But they wouldn’t forgive us if they knew. Well then, not for their sakes but for our own, we’ll both lie about this. Society would laugh a guffaw at you if you entered matrimony pure as you men demand women to be—and society will loudly defame you if you oppose its pharisaism. I am too independent not to demand the same right for myself. Our society, my friend, permits only a man to live his youth unburdened by thoughts of his future wife. But it gives this permission only silently. I demand this same right for myself, although I don’t wish to be enslaved by the public opinion of those hypocrites. That is why I have been yours to control—in your arms—(In bitter mood) and that’s why in society I’m always such—a desirable match.

( moves.)

Helen (Quickly).—Well, I’m not a rich match—as yet,—but at least I’m a woman who hasn’t compromised herself.

Vlasák (Seizes her hand).—Helen, you are far better than I! You are deeper, more sincere!

Helen.—At any rate, I have some principles, you mean? In my sinfulness, there is, at least, a system! (She laughs bitterly.)

Vlasák.—And why, Helen—(A long pause.) Why, Helen dear, do you tell me those things just at this time? In these few moments, of which we are defrauding ourselves by grave and severe discussions? (Rising.) Helen, don’t torture me! (Passionately.) Before we know it, you will have to leave! (Seizes her head and draws her to himself.)

Helen.—Do you know what I said at the beginning? The world isn’t as truthful as we are at this moment. Before the time comes when love or something else casts you into the arms of another woman, we must tell each other all,—Victor,—all! (She stands erect and draws a deep breath.) And I didn’t want you not to know why I do not regret that love. (With a fascinating smile.) And now, since you know

Vlasák (Madly embracing her).—Helen!

Helen (Withdraws from his embrace after a little while).—