RITA. [Gazing sadly before her.] Yes—with the loss of all, all life's happiness.
ALLMERS. That loss is just the gain.
RITA. [Vehemently.] Oh, phrases! Good God, we are creatures of earth after all.
ALLMERS. But something akin to the sea and the heavens too, Rita.
RITA. You perhaps. Not I.
ALLMERS. Oh, yes—you too, more than you yourself suspect.
RITA. [Advancing a pace towards him.] Tell me, Alfred—could you think of taking up your work again?
ALLMERS. The work that you have hated so?
RITA. I am easier to please now. I am willing to share you with the book.
ALLMERS. Why?