[Repudiating the idea.] No, no, that is quite impossible. If Ragnar leaves me and starts work on his own account, then of course he will need you himself.
[Wringing her hands.] Oh, I feel as if I could not be separated from you! It's quite, quite impossible!
Then be sure you get those foolish notions out of Ragnar's head. Marry him as much as you please—[Alters his tone.] I mean—don't let him throw up his good situation with me. For then I can keep you too, my dear Kaia.
Oh yes, how lovely that would be, if it could only be managed!
[Clasps her head with his two hands and whispers.] For I cannot get on without you, you see. I must have you with me every single day.
[In nervous exaltation.] My God! My God!
[Kisses her hair.] Kaia—Kaia!
[Sinks down before him.] Oh, how good you are to me! How unspeakably good you are!
[Vehemently.] Get up! For goodness' sake get up! I think I hear some one.
[He helps her to rise. She staggers over to the desk.