[The Valet goes out.]
Helen [placing her muff on a chair]. I can no longer live without you. Either you take me with you or I will kill myself.
Gerardo. Helen!
Helen. Yes, kill myself. A day like yesterday, without even seeing you—no, I could not live through that again. I am not strong enough. I beseech you, Oscar, take me with you.
Gerardo. I couldn't.
Helen. You could if you wanted to. You can't leave me without killing me. These are not mere words. This isn't a threat. It is a fact: I will die if I can no longer have you. You must take me with you—it is your duty—if only for a short time.
Gerardo. I give you my word of honor, Helen, I can't—I give you my word.
Helen. You must, Oscar. Whether you can or not, you must bear the consequences of your acts. I love life, but to me life and you are one and the same thing. Take me with you, Oscar, if you don't want to have my blood on your hands.
Gerardo. Do you remember what I said to you the first day we were together here?
Helen. I remember, but what good does that do me?