LADY. So you're still here?
STRANGER. Whether I sit here, or elsewhere, and write in the sand doesn't seem to me to matter—as long so I write in the sand.
LADY. What are you writing? May I see?
STRANGER. I think you'll find: Eve 1864.... No, don't step on it.
LADY. What happens then?
STRANGER. A disaster for you... and for me.
LADY. You know that?
STRANGER. Yes, and more. That the Christmas rose you're wearing is a mandragora. Its symbolical meaning is malice and calumny; but it was once used in medicine for the healing of madness. Will you give it me?
LADY (hesitating). As medicine?
STRANGER. Of course. (Pause.) Have you read my books?