Irene.
No, in those days I had not that sort of heart.
Professor Rubek.
But since then? Afterwards?
Irene.
Since then I have killed it innumerable times. By daylight and in the dark. Killed it in hatred—and in revenge—and in anguish.
Professor Rubek.
[Goes close up to the table and asks softly.] Irene—tell me now at last—after all these years —why did you go away from me? You disappeared so utterly—left not a trace behind
Irene.
[Shaking her head slowly.] Oh Arnold—why should I tell you that now—from the world beyond the grave.
Professor Rubek.
Was there some one else whom you had come to love?
Irene.
There was one who had no longer any use for my love—any use for my life.
Professor Rubek.
[Changing the subject.] H'm—don't let us talk any more of the past
