[Looks doubtfully at her.] I don’t understand you——?

Irene.

When I had served you with my soul and with my body—when the statue stood there finished—our child as you called it—then I laid at your feet the most precious sacrifice of all—by effacing myself for all time.

Professor Rubek.

[Bows his head.] And laying my life waste.

Irene.

[Suddenly firing up.] It was just that I wanted! Never, never should you create anything again—after you had created that only child of ours.

Professor Rubek.

Was it jealousy that moved you, then?

Irene.