Richard. Why do you laugh? Beata. I laugh because in your speech this morning you disowned us both--disowned our long sad sweet dream. Oh, I don't blame you, Richard. It isn't your conscience that torments you, it's the conscience of the race. I'm only a woman--what do I care for the race? You felt that you were sinning--I felt that I had risen above myself, that I had attained the harmony nature meant me to attain. And because I feel that---- Richard. You deny that we have sinned----? Beata. I deny nothing. I affirm nothing. I stand on the farther shore of life, and look over at you with a smile. Oh, Richard, Richard (_she laughs_), did you ever really think I had given you up? I never gave you up. I never ceased to long for you, passionately, feverishly, day and night, when you were away and when you were near me--always, always--and all the while I was playing the cool, quiet friend, biting my lips to keep the words back, and crushing down my rebellious heart--yes, and through it all I was so happy--so unspeakably, supremely happy---- Richard (_going up to her_). Take care, dear. You mustn't excite yourself. I shall have to send you home. Beata. (_Letting her head sink on his breast with a happy smile_.) Home? This is home. Richard. They will be wondering where you are. They may send here to find you. Beata (_mysteriously, urgently_). No, no--not yet! I have so much to say to you. There are so many secrets I must tell you. Everything has grown so clear to me--I wish I--Richard, you will surely come to-morrow? (_Crying out suddenly_.) I want to stay with you. I am afraid of to-night! Richard. Beata, do try to control yourself. Beata. Yes, yes--I'll control myself.-- (_She stands motionless, benumbed_.) Give me my hat. (_He brings her the hat and veil_.) And my veil. (_Fervently_.) You still love your life, Richard? You still want to live? Richard. Haven't I told you so? Ever since---- Beata. Never fear, dearest. You _shall_ live. Richard (_with outstretched hands_). Beata, before we part---- Beata. Don't thank me--don't kiss me. I--good-bye, Richard. (_She goes out_.) Richard. Beata! Curtain. ACT V ACT V