[Decisively.] There had to be a distance between us—
Was it absolutely necessary, Arnold?
[Continuing.] Do you remember what you answered when I asked if you would go with me out into the wide world?
I held up three fingers in the air and swore that I would go with you to the world's end and to the end of life. And that I would serve you in all things—
As the model for my art—
IRENE. —in frank, utter nakedness—
[With emotion.] And you did serve me, Irene—so bravely—so gladly and ungrudgingly.
Yes, with all the pulsing blood of my youth, I served you!
[Nodding, with a look of gratitude.] That you have every right to say.
I fell down at your feet and served you, Arnold! [Holding her clenched hand towards him.] But you, you,—you—!