Emilia
I don’t know. Enough of this. One more thing
[Pause]
Gregor
[Coming near her]
Emilia.
Emilia
I am not Emilia to you.
Gregor
[In a sudden burst of passion]
What am I to you? For God’s sake, don’t torture me. Don’t play with me. You’re a beautiful, fascinating woman. [He takes her by the shoulders and gazes down into her face] Listen, I understand you. [She laughs] No, don’t laugh at me. Oh, you’re wonderful—superb.
Emilia
I’m not laughing, Berti. But don’t be a fool!
Gregor
I am a fool! And I’m glad! You’ve stirred me to the soul. Have you ever seen blood—running blood? The sight of it makes one savage—wild—drives a man to madness. Men must have gone mad that way over you. Listen—[His hands slip up round her throat. There is menace in his voice] I can’t understand—I can’t understand why someone hasn’t taken hold of you—and strangled you!
[ 38 ]
