[stops—perplexed]

You mean ... without marriage?

Helen

I mean without marriage.

[They look into each other's eyes.

Ernest

A moment ago I thought I loved you as much as man could love woman. I was mistaken in you—I was mistaken in myself. For now I love you as man never loved before. You superb, you wonderful woman!

Helen

[holds out her hand to be shaken, not caressed]

Then you agree?