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THE MAKROPOULOS SECRET

I don’t know. Enough of this. One more thing

[Pause]

[Coming near her]

Emilia.

I am not Emilia to you.

[In a sudden burst of passion]

What am I to you? For God’s sake, don’t torture me. Don’t play with me. You’re a beautiful, fascinating woman. [He takes her by the shoulders and gazes down into her face] Listen, I understand you. [She laughs] No, don’t laugh at me. Oh, you’re wonderful—superb.

I’m not laughing, Berti. But don’t be a fool!

I am a fool! And I’m glad! You’ve stirred me to the soul. Have you ever seen blood—running blood? The sight of it makes one savage—wild—drives a man to madness. Men must have gone mad that way over you. Listen—[''His hands slip up round her throat. There is menace in his voice''] I can’t understand—I can’t understand why someone hasn’t taken hold of you—and strangled you!