Laura. The last chance? What do you mean?

Axel. Laura, I can't tell you how dearly I love you!

Laura. If you did, you wouldn't hurt me. I never hurt you.

Axel. Well, give in to me in just this one thing, and I
shall believe it is the promise of more. Go with me to the ball!

Laura. You know I cannot do that!

Axel. Ah! then I dare not delay any longer!

Laura. You frighten me! You look so angry.

Axel. No, no. But things cannot go on like this any longer. I
can't stand it!

Laura. Am I so bad, then? No one ever told me so before.

Axel. Don't cry, my dainty little fairy. You have nothing to
blame yourself for--except for being so bewitchingly sweet
whether you are laughing or crying. You exhale sweetness like a
flower. I want your influence to pervade every place where I am,
to distract me when I am moody and laugh away my longings. Hush,
hush--no red eyes. Let no one see that. Here is your mother
coming--no, it is Mathilde.

[Enter MATHILDE.]