[Evasively.] Not quite in the middle. I had unfortunately to move that figure a little back. For the sake of the general effect, you understand. Otherwise it would have dominated the whole too much.
But the joy in the light still transfigures my face?
Yes, it does, Irene—in a way. A little subdued perhaps—as my altered idea required.
[Rising noiselessly.] That design expresses the life you now see, Arnold.
Yes, I suppose it does.
And in that design you have shifted me back, a little toned down—to serve as a background-figure—in a group.
[She draws the knife.
Not a background-figure. Let us say, at most, a figure not quite in the foreground—or something of that sort.
[Whispers hoarsely.] There you uttered your own doom.
[On the point of striking.