VERA [Shaking her head sadly]
No.
DAVID
You say that because I have forfeited it.
VERA
It is my only consolation, I tell you, that you do not need me. In our happiest moments a suspicion of this truth used to lacerate me. But now it is my one comfort in the doom that divides us. See how you stand up here above the world, alone and self-sufficient. No woman could ever have more than the second place in your life.
DAVID
But you have the first place, Vera!
VERA [Shakes her head again]
No—I no longer even desire it. I have gotten over that womanly weakness.