Rebecca.

Yes, yes—what of that?

Rosmer.

I mean, that such a relation—as this of ours—does it not presuppose a quiet, happy, peaceful life——?

Rebecca.

What then?

Rosmer.

But the life I must now look forward too is one of struggle and unrest and strong agitations. For I will live my life, Rebecca! I will not be crushed to earth by horrible possibilities. I will not have my course of life forced upon me, either by the living or by—any one else.

Rebecca.

No, no—do not! Be an absolutely free man, Rosmer!