There is
nothing in the world like poetry.
PARIS [lyrically]. Have you ever heard the poignant breathing of
the stars?
HELENA. No. I don't believe in astrology.
PARIS. Have you ever smelt the powdery mists of the sun?
HELENA. I should sneeze myself to death.
PARIS. Have you ever listened to the sapphire soul of the sea?
HELENA. Has the sea a soul? But please don't stop talking. You do
it so beautifully.
PARIS. Deeds are sweeter than words. Shall we go hand in hand to
meet eternity?
HELENA [not comprehending him]. That's very pretty. Say it again.
PARIS [passionately]. There's but a moment of life left me. I
shall stifle it in ecstasy. Helena, Helena, I adore you!
HELENA [jumping up in high surprise]. You're not making love to
me, you naughty boy?
PARIS. Helena!
HELENA. You've spoken to me so little, and already you dare to do
that.
PARIS [impetuously]. I am a lover of life. I skip the
inessentials.
HELENA. Remember who I am.
PARIS. I have not forgotten. Daughter of Heaven. [Suddenly he
leaps to his feet.] Listen!
HELENA. Shhh! That's the King and Analytikos in the library.
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