ALICE. That's the manner of man he is. He says what suits him, and then he believes it. But he seems to be fond of you, principally because you don't contradict him. Try not to grow tired of us now. I believe you have come in what was to us a fortunate moment; I think it was even providential—Curt, you must not grow tired of us, for we are undoubtedly the most unhappy creatures in the whole world!
[She weeps.
CURT. I have seen one marriage at close quarters, and it was dreadful—but this is almost worse!
ALICE. Do you think so?
CURT. Yes.
ALICE. Whose fault is it?
CURT. The moment you quit asking whose fault it is, Alice, you will feel a relief. Try to regard it as a fact, a trial that has to be borne——
ALICE. I cannot do it! It is too much! [Rising] It is beyond help!
CURT. I pity both of you!—Do you know why you are hating each other?
ALICE. No, it is the most unreasoning hatred, without cause, without purpose, but also without end. And can you imagine why he is principally afraid of death? He fears that I may marry again.