AXEL. No, I don't think so. Are you convinced now that I am also your physical superior? Bend, or I'll break you!
BERTHA. Do you dare strike me?
AXEL. Why not? I know of only one reason why I should not strike you.
BERTHA. What's that?
AXEL. Because you are morally irresponsible.
BERTHA [Trying to free herself]. Let go!
AXEL. When you have begged for forgiveness! So, down on your knees. [He forces her down with one hand.] There, now look up to me, from below! That's your place, that you yourself have chosen.
BERTHA [Giving in]. Axel, Axel, I don't know you any more. Are you he who swore to love me, who begged to carry me, to lift me?
AXEL. It is I. I was strong then, and believed I had the power to do it; but you sapped my strength while my tired head lay in your lap, you sucked my best blood while I slept—and still there was enough left to subdue you. But get up and let us end this declaiming. We have business to talk over! [Berths rises, sits on couch and weeps.] Why are you crying?
BERTHA. I don't know! Because I'm weak, perhaps.