FIANCÉ. [Gently] You are a hard man, Doctor.
AXEL. No, but I may become one. You showed no consideration for my feelings a moment ago. You sneered, which I didn't. And that's the end of our conversation.
FIANCÉ. [With genuine emotion] I feared that you might take away from me my only lamb—but you wouldn't do that, you who have so many——
AXEL. Suppose I wouldn't—are you sure she would stay with you anyhow?
FIANCÉ. Put yourself in my place, Doctor——
AXEL. Yes, if you'll put yourself in mine.
FIANCÉ. I am a poor man——
AXEL. So am I! But judging by what I see and hear, you have certain bliss waiting for you in the beyond. That's more than I have.—And, furthermore, I have taken nothing away from you: I have only received what was offered me. Just as you did!
FIANCÉ. And I who had been dreaming of a future for this young woman—a future full of brightness——
AXEL. Pardon me a piece of rudeness, but you began it: are you so sure that the future of this young woman will not turn out a great deal brighter by my side?