HELEN

Aren't we sacrificing enough for the world--money, comforts, even children? Must we also sacrifice each other to the world? Must we be hypocrites because others are? Must we, too, be cowards and take on the protective coloring of our species?

ERNEST

Our ideas may be higher than society's, but society rewards and punishes its members according to its own ideas, not ours.

HELEN

Do you want society's rewards? Do you fear society's punishment?

ERNEST

[_jubilantly enfolding her_]

With you in my arms, I want nothing from heaven, I fear nothing from h.e.l.l; but, my dear [_shrugs and comes down to earth with a smile and releases her_], consider the price, consider the price.

HELEN

Aren't you willing to pay the price?

ERNEST

I? Yes! But it's the woman, always the woman, who pays.

HELEN

I am willing to pay.

ERNEST

I am not willing to let you.

HELEN

You'll have to be, dear. I shall go with you on my terms or not at all.

ERNEST

[_with decision_]

You will come with me as my wife or stay at home.

HELEN

[_gasping_]

Now? After all I've said, all I've done? Ernest: I've told the family! I relied upon you. I took for granted--Ernest, you wouldn't--you couldn't leave me behind now.

ERNEST

Thanks to you and what you've made of me, I must and will.

HELEN

Ernest!

[_Opens her arms to him to take her._

ERNEST

[_about to enfold her--resists_]

No! If you love me enough for that [_points to her pleading hands_]--I love you enough for this. [_He turns to go._] Come when you're ready to marry me.

HELEN

[_shrill, excited, angered_]

Do you think this has been easy for me? Do you think I'll offer myself again on any terms? Never!

ERNEST

You must marry me--and you will.

HELEN

You don't know me. Good-by!

ERNEST