the fierce struggle for existence of the human race. It is the consequence of the ignorance and unconsciousness of starving, shivering, sick humanity that, to save its children, instinctively snatches at everything that can warm it and still its hunger. So it destroys everything it can lay its hands on, without a thought for the morrow. And almost everything has gone, and nothing has been created to take its place. [Coldly] But I see by your face that I am not interesting you.
Helena. I know so little about such things!
Astroff. There is nothing to know. It simply isn’t interesting, that’s all.
Helena. Frankly, my thoughts were elsewhere. Forgive me! I want to submit you to a little examination, but I am embarrassed and don’t know how to begin.
Astroff. An examination?
Helena. Yes, but quite an innocent one. Sit down. [They sit down] It is about a certain young girl I know. Let us discuss it like honest people, like friends, and then forget what has passed between us, shall we?
Astroff. Very well.
Helena. It is about my step-daughter, Sonia. Do you like her?
Astroff. Yes, I respect her.
Helena. Do you like her—as a woman?
Astroff. [Slowly] No.
Helena. One more word, and that will be the last. You have not noticed anything?
Astroff. No, nothing.
Helena. [Taking his hand] You do not love her. I see that in your eyes. She is suffering. You must realise that, and not come here any more.
Astroff. My sun has set, yes, and then I haven’t the
