[Agnus turns away. It is his tragic moment; his face should be that of a combined Hamlet and King Lear—for, while to others Fanny is comedic, to him she represents earthly happiness. Fanny continues her sobbing like an animal in pain. Doll Blondin looks troubled, but stands her ground.

THE DEVIL (awkwardly)

See here, Fanny—

FANNY (trying to stem, her tears)

Yes, dear—

THE DEVIL

It isn’t any woman—it’s my work. It needs me—all of me—

DOLL BLONDIN

Then you don’t love me?

THE DEVIL (impatiently)