[Antoinette chokes down her sobs.]
Paul (comes back again, bows down to her). Weep, Antoinette! Weep! I wish I could. (He softly presses a kiss upon her hair). [Silence.]
Antoinette (jumps up). I must go! Where is my husband? I must have fresh air! My head! (She looks crazed.)
Paul (takes her arm). Yes, fresh air, Toinette, there we shall feel less constraint. It is fine outside, the snow is falling. Everything is white. Everything is old. Just as both of us have become, Toinette.
Antoinette (leaning on him). I am so afraid! So terribly afraid!
Paul (leading her to the door). You will feel better. Snow is soothing. Come and I will tell you about my life. Possibly you will forgive me then, Antoinette? (He looks at her imploringly and extends his hand to her).
Antoinette (hesitates a moment, then opening her eyes widely she lays her hand in his). Possibly!...
Paul (happy). Thank you, Toinette! Thank you!... And now come.
Antoinette (on his arm, sadly). Where shall we go?
Paul. To the park, Toinette, to the brook, do you remember, to the alders?