FORESTER (drawing a deep breath).
You wish—
SOPHY. I wish nothing. You wish and cousin Wilkens wishes. You cruel men decree our fate, and—we must bear it. If you would give in, then, indeed, we might stay. Do you believe I am going with a light heart? As far as I am concerned, I should be willing to stand by you till death. But for the children's sake and—for your sake also.
FORESTER (gloomily).
How for my sake?
SOPHY.
You are dismissed, you have no resources; and another position at your age—after your affair with Stein—you might—
FORESTER (violently).
Accept charity? For my wife and children?