Hilda.
I ought never to have seen you again. I thought there was no harm in your coming, and I—I couldn't bear to lose you altogether.
Basil.
Even if I never see you again, I must tell you now that I love you. I made you suffer, I was blind. But I love you with all my heart, Hilda. All day I think of you, and I dream of you in the night. I long to take you in my arms and kiss you, to kiss your lips, and your beautiful hair, and your hands. My whole soul is yours, Hilda.
[He goes towards her again to take her in his
arms.
Hilda.
Oh, no, go away. For God's sake, go now. I can't bear it.
Basil.
Hilda, I can't live without you.
Hilda.