Maia.
[Nods.] Little by little this evil look has come into your eyes. It seems almost as though you were nursing some dark plot against me.
Professor Rubek.
Indeed? [In a friendly but earnest tone.] Come here and sit beside me, Maia; and let us talk a little.
Maia.
[Half rising.] Then will you let me sit upon your knee? As I used to in the early days?
Professor Rubek.
No, you mustn’t—people can see us from the hotel. [Moves a little.] But you can sit here on the bench—at my side.
Maia.
No, thank you; in that case I’d rather lie here, where I am. I can hear you quite well here. [Looks inquiringly at him.] Well, what is it you want to say to me?