[Trying to take a lighter tone.] Yes, Irene.--I can assure you "our
child" has become famous all the wide world over. I suppose you have
read about it.


IRENE.

[Nods.] And has made its father famous too.--That was your dream.


PROFESSOR RUBEK.

[More softly, with emotion.] It is to you I owe everything, everything,
Irene--and I thank you.


IRENE.

[Lost in thought for a moment.] If I had then done what I had a right
to do, Arnold---


PROFESSOR RUBEK.

Well? What then?


IRENE.