Leonarda. That is not true!
Hagbart. They say there is a devil in every one that should not be waked. It is a foolish saying, because these devils are our vital forces.
Leonarda. But we ought to have them under control. That is the lesson my life has taught me; it has cost me dear, and I mean to profit by it.
Hagbart. If I did not believe that it was the impulse of truth itself that guided me to you, I should not be standing here. I have had a long struggle. I have had to give up one prejudice after another, to enable my soul to find itself fully and go forward confidently. It has brought me to you—and now we will go forward together.
Leonarda. That might have been, without this.
Hagbart. I love you! It is you I have loved in her—since the very first day. I love you!
Leonarda. Then have respect for me—and go!
Hagbart. Leonarda!
Leonarda. No, no! (Shrinks away from him.) Oh, why did this happen?
Hagbart. It has come upon us step by step. The cruel obstacles in our way have only proved friends to us, in bringing us together. Give yourself up to happiness, as I do now!