Wife. I have sworn to be true to you until death.
The Man. Give me your hand, Mary. Let us quit this dreadful place!
Wife. Yes, but I cannot stand up—my soul has left my body, and is all burning, blazing, in my brain.
The Man. I can carry you in my arms to the carriage, which is waiting for you at the door; I want to take you home, Mary!
Wife. Yes, we will go home. But you must wait for me; leave me for a little while, and I will become worthy of you, Henry!
The Man. I do not understand you, Mary.
Wife. Ah! I have prayed through weary days and endless nights; at last God heard me, and smiled upon me!
The Man. I know not what you mean, Mary!
Wife. Listen, Henry! After you left me, a great change came upon my spirit, and I felt what was wanting to make you love me. I cried to God unceasingly; I struck my breast; I placed a blessed candle on my bosom; I did penance; I said: 'Lord God be merciful unto me! Oh send down upon me the spirit of Poetry, that I may be loved!'
And on the third day I was a Poet!