Antoinette (frees herself violently). Do permit me to go by myself! I do not need you! I need no one!
Paul (bitterly). Very well! I shall not molest you! As you please!
Antoinette (sits down in the chair at the left of the sofa, seems composed again). You see I am quite calm. It was only a temporary indisposition.
Paul (coaxing). May I sit down near you, Antoinette?
Antoinette. What have you to say to me?
Paul, (sits down in the chair before her, looks at her squarely, then, after a moment of devoted contemplation). I am forced to look at you, Antoinette! Pardon me! I am forced to look at you again and again!
Antoinette. Do save up these compliments for your wife, doctor!
Paul (with growing excitement). No compliments, Antoinette! The moment is too precious!
Antoinette. Then why don't you spare yourself the trouble?
Paul. Didn't you feel it, the very moment you came in, Antoinette; I could not keep away from you.