[Bertha's attitude and actions are those of complete surrender.]
AXEL. You see—I was your strength. When I took what was mine, you had nothing left. You were a rubber ball that I blew up; when I let go of you, you fell together like an empty bag.
BERTHA [Without looking up]. I don't know whether you are right or not, but since we have quarreled, my strength has left me. Axel, will you believe me,—I have never experienced before what I now feel—
AXEL. So? What do you feel, then?
BERTHA. I can't say it! I don't know whether it is—love, but—
AXEL. What do you mean by love? Isn't it a quiet longing to eat me alive once more? You begin to love me! Why didn't you do that before, when I was good to you? Goodness is stupidity, though; let us be evil! Isn't that right?
BERTHA. Be a little evil, rather, but don't be weak. [Rises.] Axel, forgive me, but don't desert me. Love me! Oh, love me!
AXEL. It is too late! Yesterday, this morning, I would have fallen before you as you stand there now, but it's too late now.
BERTHA. Why is it too late now?
AXEL. Because tonight I have broken all ties, even the last.