ALLMERS. [Gently.] I will always go on caring for you—with calm, deep tenderness. [ He tries to take her hands.]
RITA. [Evading him.] I don't care a bit for your calm, deep tenderness. I want you utterly and entirely—and alone! Just as I had you in the first rich, beautiful days. [Vehemently and harshly.] Never, never will I consent to be put off with scraps and leavings, Alfred!
ALLMERS. [In a conciliatory tone.] I should have thought there was happiness in plenty for all three of us, Rita.
RITA. [Scornfully.] Then you are easy to please. [Seats herself at the table on the left.] Now listen to me.
ALLMERS. [Approaching.] Well, what is it?
RITA. [Looking up at him with a veiled glow in her eyes.] When I got your telegram yesterday evening—
ALLMERS. Yes? What then?
RITA.—then I dressed myself in white—
ALLMERS. Yes, I noticed you were in white when I arrived.
RITA. I had let down my hair—