THE OFFICER. Yes, there is a newly married couple. Just watch them.
THE NEWLY MARRIED COUPLE enter.
HUSBAND. [To his WIFE] My joy has no limits, and I could now wish to die——
WIFE. Why die?
HUSBAND. Because at the heart of happiness grows the seed of disaster. Happiness devours itself like a flame—it cannot burn for ever, but must go out some time. And this presentiment of the coming end destroys joy in the very hour of its culmination.
WIFE. Let us then die together—this moment!
HUSBAND. Die? All right! For I fear happiness—that cheat! [They go toward the water.
THE DAUGHTER. Life is evil! Men are to be pitied!
THE OFFICER. Look at this fellow. He is the most envied mortal in this neighbourhood.
THE BLIND MAN is led in.