ALLMERS. Can you say that our little Eyolf has done that? RITA. [Pointing with her forefinger.] There, you see! You see! The moment you mention Eyolf's name, you grow tender and your voice quivers! [Threateningly, clenching her hands.] Oh, you almost tempt we to wish-- ALLMERS. [Looking at her anxiously.] What do I tempt you to wish, Rita?-- RITA. [Vehemently, going away from him.] No, no, no--I won't tell you that! Never! ALLMERS. [Drawing nearer to her.] Rita! I implore you--for my sake and for your own--do not let yourself he tempted into evil. [BORGHEIM and ASTA come up from the garden. They both show signs of restrained emotion. They look serious and dejected. ASTA remains out on the verandah. BORGHEIM comes into the room.] BORGHEIM. So that is over--Miss Allmers and I have had our last walk together. RITA. [Looks at him with surprise.] Ah! And there is no longer journey to follow the walk? BORGHEIM. Yes, for me. RITA. For you alone? BORGHEIM. Yes, for me alone. RITA. [Glances darkly at ALLMERS.] Do you hear that? [Turns to BORGHEIM.] I'll wager it is some one with the evil eye that has played you this trick. BORGHEIM. [Looks at her.] The evil eye? RITA. [Nodding.] Yes, the evil eye. BORGHEIM. Do you believe in the evil eye, Mrs. Allmers? RITA. Yes. I have begun to believe in the evil eye. Especially in a child's evil eye. ALLMERS. [Shocked, whispers.] Rita--how can you--? RITA. [Speaking low.] It is you that make me so wicked and hateful, Alfred. [Confused cries and shrieks are heard in the distance, from the