ALLMERS. Well?
ASTA.--that I have no right to bear your father's name.
ALLMERS. [Staggering backwards.] Asta! What is this you say!
ASTA. Read the letters. Then you will see--and understand. And perhaps
have some forgiveness--for mother, too.
ALLMERS. [Clutching at his forehead.] I cannot grasp this--I cannot
realise the thought. You, Asta--you are not--
ASTA. You are not my brother, Alfred.
ALLMERS. [Quickly, half defiantly, looking at her.] Well, but what
difference does that really make in our relation? Practically none at
all.
ASTA. [Shaking her head.] It makes all the difference, Alfred. Our
relation is not that of brother and sister.
ALLMERS. No, no. But it is none the less sacred for that--it will always
be equally sacred.
ASTA. Do not forget--that it is subject to the law of change, as you
said just now.