[In a trembling voice, looking at him.] Can what you tell me be true--that I was then the dearest thing in the world to you? BORKMAN. Both then and afterwards--long, long, after. ELLA RENTHEIM. But you bartered me away none the less; drove a bargain with another man for your love. Sold my love for a--for a directorship. BORKMAN. [Gloomily and bowed down.] I was driven by inexorable necessity, Ella. ELLA RENTHEIM. [Rises from the sofa, quivering with passion.] Criminal! BORKMAN. [Starts, but controls himself.] I have heard that word before. ELLA RENTHEIM. Oh, don't imagine I'm thinking of anything you may have done against the law of the land! The use you made of all those vouchers and securities, or whatever you call them--do you think I care a straw about that! If I could have stood at your side when the crash came---- BORKMAN. [Eagerly.] What then, Ella? ELLA RENTHEIM. Trust me, I should have borne it all so gladly along with you. The shame, the ruin--I would have helped you to bear it all--all! BORKMAN. Would you have had the will--the strength? ELLA RENTHEIM. Both the will and the strength. For then I did not know of your great, your terrible crime. BORKMAN. What crime? What are you speaking of? ELLA RENTHEIM. I am speaking of that crime for which there is no forgiveness. BORKMAN. [Staring at her.] You must be out of your mind. ELLA RENTHEIM.