ERNEST
But I need you. You know that. And you need me. It"s too late. We are helpless now--in the clutch of forces more potent than our little selves--forces that brought us into the world--forces that have made the world. Whether you will or no, this beautiful binding power is sweeping you and me together. And you must yield.
HELEN
[_reaching for his hand_]
Ah, my dear, could anything make it more beautiful, more binding than it is now?
ERNEST
It is perfect. The one divine thing we share with G.o.d. The Church is right in that respect. I used to look upon marriage as a mere contract.
It"s a religious sacrament.
HELEN
Does the wedding ceremony make it sacred?
ERNEST
That medival incantation! No, love, which is given by G.o.d, not the artificial form made by man.
HELEN
I knew it! I knew you"d see it--the mistake of all the ages. They"ve tried to make love fit marriage. It can"t be done. Marriage must be changed to fit love. [_Impulsively._] Yes, I"ll go to Paris with you.
ERNEST
[_about to take her in his arms_]
You darling!
HELEN
[_steps back_]
But not as your wife.
ERNEST
[_stops--perplexed_]
You mean ... without marriage?
HELEN
I mean without marriage.
[_They look into each other"s eyes._
ERNEST
A moment ago I thought I loved you as much as man could love woman. I was mistaken in you--I was mistaken in myself. For now I love you as man never loved before. You superb, you wonderful woman!
HELEN
[_holds out her hand to be shaken, not caressed_]
Then you agree?
ERNEST
[_kneels, kisses her hand, and arises_]
Of course not! You blessed girl, don"t you suppose I understand? It"s all for my sake. Therefore for your sake--no.
HELEN
Then for my sake--for the sake of everything our love stands for!
ERNEST
[_laughing fondly_]
Do you think I"d let you do anything for anybody"s sake you"re sure, later, to regret?
HELEN
Then don"t ask me to marry you, Ernest. We"d both regret that later. It would destroy the two things that have brought us together, love and work.
ERNEST
Nonsense. Nothing could do that.... And besides, think of our poor horrified families! Think of the world"s view!