Act II]
99
Why did you lead me on? Day after day, more and more. Why did you not stop me? You could have—with a word. But not even a word! I forgot myself and him. You saw it. That I was ruining myself in his eyes, losing his friendship. Did you want me to?
Bertha
[Looking up.] You never asked me.
Robert
Asked you what?
Bertha
If he suspected—or knew.
Robert
And would you have told me?
Bertha
Yes.
Robert
[Hesitatingly.] Did you tell him—everything?
Bertha
I did.
Robert
I mean—details.
Bertha
Everything.
Robert
[With a forced smile.] I see. You were making an experiment for his sake. On me. Well, why not? It seems I was a good subject. Still, it was a little cruel of you.
Bertha
Try to understand me, Robert. You must try.