Rita.
But if Eyolf had never been born? What then?
Allmers.
[Evasively.] Oh, that would be another matter. Then I should have only you to care for.
Rita.
[Softly, her voice quivering.] Then I wish he had never been born.
Allmers.
[Flashing out.] Rita! You don't know what you are saying!
Rita.
[Trembling with emotion.] It was in pain unspeakable that I brought him into the world. But I bore it all with joy and rapture for your sake.
Allmers.
[Warmly.] Oh yes, I know, I know.
Rita.
[With decision.] But there it must end. I will live my life—together with you—wholly with you. I cannot go on being only Eyolf's mother—only his mother and nothing more. I will not, I tell you! I cannot! I will be all in all to you! To you, Alfred!
Allmers.
But that is just what you are, Rita. Through our child
