Ernest!

[Opens her arms to him to take her.

Ernest

[about to enfold her—resists]

No! If you love me enough for that [points to her pleading hands]—I love you enough for this. [He turns to go.] Come when you're ready to marry me.

Helen

[shrill, excited, angered]

Do you think this has been easy for me? Do you think I'll offer myself again on any terms? Never!

Ernest

You must marry me—and you will.