Ellida. Oh, yes, it was. And it's so natural. It could bring nothing but unhappiness, after the way in which we came together.
Wangel. What was there in that way?
Ellida. Listen, Wangel; it's no use going on, lying to ourselves and to one another.
Wangel. Are we doing so? Lying, you say?
Ellida. Yes, we are; or, at least, we suppress the truth. For the truth—the pure and simple truth is—that you came out there and bought me.
Wangel. Bought—you say bought!
Ellida. Oh! I wasn't a bit better than you. I accepted the bargain. Sold myself to you!
Wangel (looks at her full of pain). Ellida, have you really the heart to call it that?
Ellida. But is there any other name for it? You could no longer bear the emptiness of your house. You were on the look-out for a new wife.
Wangel. And a new mother for the children, Ellida.