first advance? Perhaps expose myself to the suspicion of wanting
to begin all over again? After such a repulse as I had had?

Ellida. Oh no! I understand very well. Have you never since
thought of forming any other tie?

Arnholm. Never! I have been faithful to my first memories.

Ellida (half jestingly). Nonsense! Let the sad old memories
alone. You'd better think of becoming a happy husband, I should
say.

Arnholm. I should have to be quick about it, then, Mrs. Wangel.
Remember, I'm already--I'm ashamed to say--I'm past thirty-seven.

Ellida. Well, all the more reason for being quick. (She is silent
for a moment, and then says, earnestly, in a low voice.) But
listen, dear Arnholm; now I am going to tell you something that I
could not have told you then, to save my life.

Arnholm. What is it?

Ellida. When you took the--the useless step you were just
speaking of--I could not answer you otherwise than I did.

Arnholm. I know that you had nothing but friendship to give me; I
know that well enough.

Ellida. But you did not know that all my mind and soul were then
given elsewhere.