ELLA RENTHEIM. [Eagerly.] Why, I ask you? Tell me why! BORKMAN. [Without looking at her.] One shrinks from risking what one holds dearest on such a voyage. ELLA RENTHEIM. You had risked what was dearest to you on that voyage. Your whole future life---- BORKMAN. Life is not always what one holds dearest. ELLA RENTHEIM. [Breathlessly.] Was that how you felt at that time? BORKMAN. I fancy it was. ELLA RENTHEIM. I was the dearest thing in the world to you? BORKMAN. I seem to remember something of the sort. ELLA RENTHEIM. And yet years had passed since you had deserted me--and married-- married another! BORKMAN. Deserted you, you say? You must know very well that it was higher motives--well then, other motives that compelled me. Without his support I could not have done anything. ELLA RENTHEIM. [Controlling herself.] So you deserted me from--higher motives. BORKMAN. I could not get on without his help. And he made you the price of helping me. ELLA RENTHEIM. And you paid the price. Paid it in full--without haggling. BORKMAN. I had no choice. I had to conquer or fall. ELLA RENTHEIM. [In a trembling voice, looking at him.] Can what you tell me