Marie. I think you are hard-hearted. George. And yet you love me? Marie. Yes, I love you, for your own sake. For you have had to struggle and fight--and that is what made you what you are. I have also fought and struggled; but I have lost faith in myself--lost faith in everything. If you only knew!! Sometimes I am afraid of myself--sometimes I would commit murder, so restless and without peace I am. George. With me you would have found peace. We would have worked together and planned through half the nights--and you know how ambitious I am. Marie. And so am I, for you! You should be the first and greatest. They all shall bow before you--I myself will kneel before you and say to you: "You love to rule and command? Now rule--now command!!!!!!" [_Throws herself before him--her arms around his knees, looking up_.] George. Marie, in heaven's name rise! If any one should see you so---- Marie. Let them see me---- George. _Marie!!_ Marie. [_Rising_.] You are right. It was low in me. But he who originates where I do, is low--so low---- George. Don't think of it, Marie! Think of this house and all the love it has given you! Marie. How quiet everything is--not a sound to be heard--as silent as the grave---- George. Then be content, for they have buried us together! Marie. If they only had----! George. And see the pale moon--how it throws its silvery rays over the garden--and yonder is your manzanillo-tree. Marie. Yes, yes, do you see it? George. And its white, trembling leaves; see, see, each one seems alive--though not a breath of air is stirring. Come, let us go to it. Marie. [_Cowering_.] No, no, I think it is time--we must---- George. Sh!--Sh!---- Marie. What is it? George. There--something moved. It must be Gertrude. [_Goes to door C. and calls_.] "Gertrude!!!" [_Short pause_.] Marie. You must have been mistaken! George. No, no; I saw a shadow. "Gertrude!" Remain here, I'll go see! [_Exit into garden_.] Marie. Oh, I'm so afraid, George--so afraid----! [_Pause_.] [George _returns, pale and agitated, trying to control himself_.]