Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/276



I could not get on without his help. And he made you the price of helping me.

And you paid the price. Paid it in full—without haggling.

I had no choice. I had to conquer or fall.

[In a trembling voice, looking at him.] Can what you tell me be true—that I was then the dearest thing in the world to you?

Both then and afterwards—long, long after.

But you bartered me away none the less; drove a bargain with another man for your love. Sold my love for a—for a directorship.

[Gloomily and bowed down.] I was driven by inexorable necessity, Ella.

[Rises from the sofa, quivering with passion.] Criminal!

[Starts, but controls himself.] I have heard that word before.