In that case it won't astonish you to see me this house with so little ceremony.
HELEN
No-o! I do understand—! But I should like you to feel less harshly toward my brother-in-law. He always repents very quickly. I have often….
LOTH
Quite possibly. But for that very reason what he has said just now probably expresses his true opinion of me.—In fact, it is undoubtedly his real opinion.
HELEN
Do you seriously believe that?
LOTH
Oh, yes, quite seriously. And so…. [He walks toward her and takes her hand.] I hope that life will be kind to you. [He turns but at once stops again.] I don't know…! or rather:—[he looks calmly and directly into HELEN'S face]—I do know, I know—at this moment the knowledge becomes clear—that it is not so easy for me to go away from here … and … yes … and … well, yes…!