Laura. But, father, father—look, I am not crying the least bit.
Mother and Mathilde. Yes, she is crying!
Axel. Yes—and will cry every day until we make a change here! (A pause, while they all look at him.) Well, as so much has been said, it may as well all come out. Our marriage is not a happy one, because it lacks the most essential thing of all.
Mother. Merciful heavens, what are you saying!
Father. Compose yourself; let me talk to him. What do you mean, sir?
Axel. Laura does not love me—
Laura. Yes, that is what he says!
Axel. She hasn't the least idea what love means, and will never learn as long as she is in her father's house.
Mother and Father. Why?
Axel. Because she lives only for her parents; me, she looks upon merely as an elder brother who is to assist her in loving them.