thinking that makes your hand tremble in mine?
Alexandra—Of something reckless, and
Agi—And of what?
Alexandra—And of my rank, Hans. [There is a pause. Alexandra glances toward the table.] Won't you have something to eat?
Agi—No.
Alexandra—Why won't you eat?
Agi—I am not hungry. [Turns to her ardently.] I'm thirsty.
Alexandra—[Trembling.] Will you drink something?
Agi—No. I am thirsty for you, for your mouth and your eyes . . . and your voice. . . .
Alexandra—[Terrified.] You mustn't look at me like that!
Agi—[Passionately.] When I look into your eyes . . . deep into your eyes . . . we seem to be mounting together on the crest of a flame
Alexandra—[In alarm.] What do you mean?
Agi—Upward . . . ever upward . . . higher . . . along the path. . . .
Alexandra—[Alarmed, child-like.] What path are you talking about?
Agi—[Coming nearer to her.] The path you pointed out to me. . . . Before, I lacked the courage to realize . . . that I am the rival of a king. But now I know it. And now I know I have won. Be-
