Rosmer.
[Sadly.] Ah,—innocence.
Rebecca.
Yes, innocence. That is the source of peace and happiness. That was the vital truth you were to implant in the coming generation of happy noble-men——
Rosmer.
Oh, don’t remind me of that. It was only an abortive dream, Rebecca—an immature idea, that I myself no longer believe in.—Ah no, we cannot be ennobled from without, Rebecca.
Rebecca.
[Softly.] Not even by tranquil love, Rosmer?
Rosmer.
[Thoughtfully.] Yes—that would be the great thing—the most glorious in life, almost—if it were so. [Moves uneasily.] But how can I be certain of that? How convince myself?