RITA. [Vehemently.] Yes, I do. As he comes between you and me, I
call him so. For the book--the book was not a living being, as the
child is. [With increasing impetuosity.] But I won't endure it,
Alfred! I will not endure it--I tell you so plainly!

ALLMERS. [Looks steadily at her, and says in a low voice.] I am
often almost afraid of you, Rita.

RITA. [Gloomily.] I am often afraid of myself. And for that very
reason you must not awake the evil in me.

ALLMERS. Why, good Heavens, do I do that?

RITA. Yes, you do--when you tear to shreds the holiest bonds
between us.

ALLMERS. [Urgently.] Think what you're saying, Rita. It is your own
child--our only child, that you are speaking of.

RITA. The child is only half mine. [With another outburst.] But you
shall be mine alone! You shall be wholly mine! That I have a right
to demand of you!

ALLMERS. [Shrugging his shoulders.] Oh, my dear Rita, it is of no
use demanding anything. Everything must be freely given.

RITA. [Looks anxiously at him.] And that you cannot do henceforth?

ALLMERS. No, I cannot. I must divide myself between Eyolf and you.