AXEL. [Entering; to MARIE] What do you want here?
MARIE. Oh, one never can tell.
AXEL. Then you had better clear out.
MARIE. Why?
AXEL. Because what there was between us came to an end three years ago.
MARIE. And now there is another one to be thrown on the scrap heap?
AXEL. Did I ever give you any promises that were not kept? Have I ever owed you anything? Have I ever said a word about marriage? Have we had any children together? Have I been the only one to receive your favours?
MARIE. But now you mean to be the only one? With that one over there!
CECILIA. [Goes up to MARIE] What do you mean?—I don't know you!
MARIE. No, but there was a time when you did know me. And I remember that when we met in the streets we called each other by our first names. [To AXEL] And now you are going to marry her? No, you know, you are really too good for that!