Did you ever love before?

CARLOMAN.

Never.

GENEVIVA.

Then I must tell you who I am:
A harlot ... in my palace—Do not wince!

[she looks at him doubtfully]

I had a husband counted me a temptress
And fled: I laugh now to remember it.
I loved once; he I loved became a monk,
And therefore I make sport of holy men.
I would not scoff at you, not tempt you even.
You have deep, burning eyes.

CARLOMAN.

He was a monk?
His name, who fled you? Would you have your pleasure
With me, his name!

GENEVIVA.