AXEL. Let it go at that.
BERTHA. But I would sacrifice my woman's pride if I could help you.
AXEL. You women have no pride.
BERTHA. Axel!
AXEL. Well, well, pardon, pardon!
BERTHA. You must be jealous. I don't believe you would really like it if I were accepted at the salon.
AXEL. Nothing would make me happier. Believe me, Bertha.
BERTHA. Would you be happy, too, if I were accepted and you were refused?
AXEL. I must feel and see. [Puts his hand over his heart.] No, that would be decidedly disagreeable, decidedly. In the first place, because I paint better than you do, and because—
BERTHA [Walking up and down]. Speak out. Because I am a woman!