CHRISTINE. See, now you frown. I regret telling you, but it's too late now.
ELIS. Yes. It is somewhat late now, but explain—
CHRISTINE. I prepared you, told you that I couldn't explain, and that's the reason I begged your boundless faith.
ELIS [Mildly]. Go. I trust you. But I suffer to know that you seek the company of a traitor.
CHRISTINE. I realize that, but this is to be a test.
ELIS. Which I cannot endure.
CHRISTINE. You must.
ELIS. I would like to, but I cannot. But you must go nevertheless.
CHRISTINE. Your hand!
ELIS [Giving his hand]. There—[The telephone rings; Elis goes to it.] Hello!—No answer. Hello!—No answer but my own voice.—Who is it?—That's strange. I only hear the echo of my own words.