Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 9).djvu/183

 to ask you again now? If I were to beg and entreat you?

Rebecca.

Dear,—never speak of this again! It is impossible! For you must know, Rosmer, I have a—a past behind me.

Rosmer.

More than what you have told me?

Rebecca.

Yes. Something different and something more.

Rosmer.

[With a faint smile.] Is it not strange, Rebecca? Some such idea has crossed my mind now and then.

Rebecca.

It has? And yet? Even so?

Rosmer.

I never believed it. I only played with it—in my thoughts, you understand.

Rebecca.

If you wish it, I will tell you all, at once.

Rosmer.

[Turning it off.] No, no! I will not hear a word. Whatever it may be—I can forget it.

Rebecca.

But I cannot.

Rosmer.

Oh Rebecca!