Mother. Yes, here the battle rages, and so you must get out of
the way. You know our lot when the men go to war.

Christine. But let me first know what it is all about. Not to
know anything at all makes me so unhappy. I see nothing but a
dreadful darkness, and shadows that are moving about--Give me
light, so that I may see clearly! Perhaps I know these ghostly
shallows?

Mother. You will shudder when you see who they are.

Christine. It is better to shudder than to be tormented by this
horrible calm.

Mother. Don't pray for the cloud to flash forth lightning: it
may destroy you!

Christine. You frighten me! But tell me the truth--I must know--
or I shall ask some one else.

Mother. Are you firm in your decision to withdraw within the
sacred walls of the convent?

Christine. My father wishes it.

Mother. You hesitate? (Christine does not answer.) There is some
tie that holds you back.

Christine. You know?