ASTA. [Looking sadly at him.] But you will never write any more
of your book on "Human Responsibility"?

ALLMERS. No, never, Asta. I tell you I cannot split up my life
between two vocations. But I will act out my "human responsibility"--
in my own life.

RITA. [With a smile.] Do you think you can live up to such high
resolves at home here?

ALLMERS. [Taking her hand.] With you to help me, I can. [Holds out
the other hand.] And with you too, Asta.

RITA. [Drawing her hand away.] Ah--with both of us! So, after all,
you can divide yourself.

ALLMERS. Why, my dearest Rita--!

[RITA moves away from him and stands in the garden doorway. A light
and rapid knock is heard at the door on the right. Engineer
BORGHEIM enters quickly. He is a young man of a little over thirty.
His expression is bright and cheerful, and he holds himself erect.]

BORGHEIM. Good morning, Mrs. Allmers. [Stops with an expression of
pleasure on seeing ALLMERS.] Why, what's this? Home again already,
Mr. Allmers?

ALLMERS. [Shaking hands with him.] Yes, I arrived list night.

RITA. [Gaily.] His leave was up, Mr. Borgheim.