Lucia
(Quickly.) The work, ah yes, the work’s sake. (Excitedly.) Oh, my Paulo, what would I not do—what would I not sacrifice for your advancement—I mean, for your art, your wonderful great art. (Confused.)
Paulo
(Quietly.) This shall be our love’s first-fruits (pointing to canvas).
Lucia
(Repeats low to herself.) Our love’s first-fruits.
Paulo
(Rapt.) When you and I float over the lagoons as dust upon the wind—(turns to her from picture, and lowers voice) when you and I are gone—remembered, perhaps, only as Paulo the painter, and Lucia his inspiration—this beauty—ah, that is my dream—this beauty shall still shine out for the world.
[They watch the picture for a moment.
Lucia