seven-year torment, shame and disgrace? Those reproaches during
sleepless nights? Why? Why? Why?

TEMPTER. Old Maia, you can go now. But first say something nice
about this self-tormentor. Can't you remember any human quality in
this wild beast, whom human beings have baited for years?

STRANGER (to MAIA). Quiet, don't answer him! (He stops his ears
with his fingers.)

TEMPTER. Well, Maia?

MAIA. I know well enough what they say about him, but that refers
to what he writes--and I've not read it for I can't read. Still, no
one need read it, if they don't want to. Anyhow the gentleman's
been very kind. Now he's stopping his ears. I don't know how to
flatter; but I can say this in a whisper. ... (She whispers some
thing to the TEMPTER.)

TEMPTER. Yes. All human beings who are easily moved are baited
like wild beasts! It's the rule. Good bye, old Maia!

MAIA. Good-bye, kind gentlemen. (She goes out.)

STRANGER. Why did I suffer innocently for seven years?

TEMPTER (pointing upwards with one finger). Ask up there!

STRANGER. Where I never get an answer!