Hella. Quite right. I did it of my own accord. Now don't you think that counts for more, Paul? (She closely draws up a chair and sits down facing Paul. )
Paul. Up to the day before yesterday anything would have counted with me. Today no longer, Hella!
Hella (eagerly). I remained because I kept in mind that it might be agreeable to you to have me near you. I have given you time to come to yourself again. I know very well what is going on in you.
Paul. Hardly!
Hella. Indeed, Paul, indeed! You have seen the soil of your boyhood home again. You have buried your father. I understand your crisis completely.
Paul. Really! All at once!
Hella. From the very beginning!
Paul. I did not realize very much of it!
Hella (interrupting him). Simply because I thought it would be best to let you settle that for yourself. That is why I have not interfered; allowed you to go your own way, these days. (Paul shrugs his shoulders and is silent.) Does all this fail to convince you?
Paul (distressed). Drop that, Hella.