Gustav. No doubt we are to a certain extent. But an infinitesimal something remains, and that contains the guilt, all the same, and the creditors turn up sooner or later! Men and women may be guiltless, but they have to render an account. Guiltless before Him in whom neither of us believes any more, responsible to themselves and to their fellow-men.
Thekla. You’ve come, then, to warn me?
Gustav. I’ve come to demand back what you stole from me, not what you had as a present. You stole my honor, and I could only win back mine by taking yours—wasn’t I right?
Thekla.[After a pause, going over to him on the right] Honor! Hm! And are you satisfied now?
Gustav.[After a pause.] I am satisfied now. [He presses the bell by the door for the WAITER.]
Thekla.[After another pause.] And now you’re going to your bride, Gustav?
Gustav. I have none—and shall never have one. I am not going home because I have no home, and shall never have one. [WAITER comes in on the left.]
SCENE VI
[Previous characters—WAITER standing back.] Gustav. Bring me the bill—I’m leaving by the twelve o’clock boat. [WAITER bows and exits left.]