Paul (facing Hella, shaking his head). I do not see what objections you can have to the chandelier.
Hella (meeting his eye calmly). None whatever, Paul.
Paul. Aunt Clara's intentions were certainly good. One does realize that one was expected. (He turns away and takes several steps through the hall.)
Hella. But you know that I do not like such occasions. That is simply my disposition. I cannot make myself over.
Paul. I certainly do not demand that. (Turns on his heel and approaches again.) Or have I not always allowed you to have your own way!
Hella (also compromising). Certainly, certainly, up to the present we have agreed on this point.
Paul. And shall continue in the future. (He extends his right hand to Hella. )
Hella (grasps his hand and looks into his face squarely). I am true to my old self, Paul, remain so too.
Paul. Simply because each one of us has freely gone his own way, nothing has been able to separate us. That is the reason why we have kept together so firmly, all of these years. Don't you think so too?
Hella. It seems to me that I held that point of view long before we were acquainted.