Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 11).djvu/458

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If only you—? Well?

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I did as you told me—went with you up to the heights. And there I fell upon my knees, and worshipped you, and served you. [''Is silent for a moment; then says softly.''] Then I saw the sunrise.

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[Turning the conversation.] Should you not like to come and live with us in the villa down there?

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[Looks at him with a scornful smile.] With you—and the other woman?

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[Urgently.] With me—as in our days of creation. You could open all that is locked up in me. Can you not find it in your heart, Irene?

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[Shaking her head.] I have no longer the key to you, Arnold.

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You have the key! You and you alone possess it! [Beseechingly.] Help me—that I may be able to live my life over again!

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[Immovable as before.] Empty dreams! Idle—dead dreams. For the life you and I led there is no resurrection.