I see that I have never really known you; never thoroughly. I am beginning to understand that now.
Ellida.
And therefore you must set me free! Loose me from every tie to you and yours! I am not the woman you took me for; you see that now yourself. Now we can part in mutual understanding—and of our own free will.
Wangel.
[Gloomily.] It would perhaps be best for us both—to part. But for all that, I cannot! To me it is you that are “terrible,” Ellida. And fascinating—that you are above all things.
Ellida.
Do you say so?
Wangel.
Let us try to get through this day with no false step—to act calmly and collectedly. I cannot release you and let you go to-day. I must not—for your own sake, Ellida. I assert my right and my duty to protect you.
Ellida.