They decree authority; they hide the light.

They are men, defending their interests as men; they are rulers defending their sway.
It has to be! You shall _not_ know! A terrible memory shudders through me; and I catch a confused glimpse of people who, for the needs of their common cause, uphold, with their promises and thunder, the mad unhappiness which lies heavy on the multitudes.
* * * * * * Footsteps are climbing towards me.

Marie appears, dressed in gray.
She comes to look for me.

In the distance I saw that her cheeks were brightened and rejuvenated by the wind.

Close by I see that her eyelids are worn, like silk.