[She kisses him—but very formally and briefly]
HELIOGABALUS
Ah!
LUCIA
Now, Cæsar, you know I love you.
HELIOGABALUS
No; so far I merely suspect it. What is needed is corroboration. Now for another, sweet icebox—and let it be a bit more easy and dreamy. Let yourself go a bit. Don't hold your breath. Don't—forgive me, little one—be so gol-darned Christian.
[A long one, during which, his arms about her, LUCIA tries to fight away from him. As they fall apart LUCIA grasps the bed for support]
LUCIA
[Her hands to her face] Oh!